I’d bet my life on you

I grasped the metal bar to keep my balance and avoid taking in all of the blood pooling around my feet, running down my legs, and splattered all over my hospital gown. She gently said, “it’s ok, lower yourself down, I’ve got you.” She guided me step by step of cleaning myself, using the bathroom, and tending to the the most sensitive and private parts of my body. I was exhausted, afraid, and slightly embarrassed. She was calm, reassuring, and patient. She cleaned up every pool and drop of blood without hesitation or grimace. Her name is Kim. She was my labor and delivery nurse when I had my most recent baby. And she cared for me in my most vulnerable first moments after delivering my son. 

Recently, a GOP senator made an off-handed comment about nurses spending most of their day playing cards. The internet ran with it. Memes. Tweets. Social media posts. It blew up because it couldn’t be more off the mark. 

I keep thinking about Kim and what she gave to me in the 6 hours she cared for me, barely leaving my side. And she wasn’t the only one. My baby came fast, with little warning. A dozen medical professionals rushed in the room and enthusiastically, lovingly helped my baby into the world. I don’t know what they were doing 5 minutes before my baby crowned unexpectedly. And I don’t care. They showed up with the energy, knowledge, and focus to care for my family. 

Nurses work tremendously long hours, sometimes assisting with planned medical procedures, sometimes waiting for the unexpected to happen, because it will. This can mean hours without using the bathroom or eating or checking in with their families. Not only can the hours be long but they are required to fully give their physical, cognitive, and emotional all with every patient. And they do. 

I was completely dependent on Kim and she was completely present with me. I hope she got a long break and did something that relaxed her when I left her unit because she likely had to do it all again with another patient and she would fully show up for them too like she did with me. 

We see you, nurses. We recognize the physical and emotional sacrifices you make every day. We know the toll it takes on you. And we are so grateful. So go ahead and play some cards if you get a chance. I’m guessing you won’t but I’d bet my life on you any day.