Thank you to my nurses, the real MVPs of CF and transplant care
Their kindness and compassion have helped me through health struggles
Nurses save lives. It might sound dramatic, but it’s true.
Throughout my journey with cystic fibrosis (CF) and a double-lung transplant nearly eight years ago, I’ve encountered nurses in every season of life. They’ve been present in both inpatient and outpatient settings. They’ve coordinated my care, worked behind the scenes, and been on the front lines of my healthcare. I have immense gratitude for the difference they’ve made in my life.
Most people might not know this, but nurses have had the most involvement in my medical care during hospitalizations. Prior to my transplant, I basically lived in the hospital for nearly two years. CF exacerbations would last two to three weeks, I’d be home for a few weeks, and then I’d land back in the hospital. Rinse and repeat.
Typically, the doctors visited for a few minutes each day, but the nurses were the ones who carried out the care plan. They hooked up my intravenous medication every four to six hours, administered my oral medications throughout the day, and were on call when I needed anything. They advocated for me so that my needs would be met.
During this time, I really got to know the nurses on my hospital floor. They witnessed everything from my near-death experiences to my moments of triumph — the most profound being when I got the call that new lungs were available. They were like family. I actually saw them more than my own family!
Lara Govendo, center, snaps a picture with her mother, sister, and hospital floor nurses before being transported for her double-lung transplant. (Courtesy of Lara Govendo)
They greeted me with hugs and smiles every time I was hospitalized. My usual nurses knew exactly how I liked my room and would set it up for me when they knew I was being admitted. I wanted a certain number of pillows, a mini-fridge, and my bed made in a specific manner. They paid attention to every detail and beamed with pride when they surprised me by having my room set up exactly how I liked it.
It felt like home, and they all made me as comfortable as possible, lovingly referring to me as “princess.” One nurse even made me a sign that was hung on my door during my nap times that said: “Do not wake the princess.” I felt so seen and cared for.
Remembering all of you
So many of you have gone above and beyond the call of duty for me over the years. Some of you have called my hospital room to see if you can pick up my favorite foods, while others have brought me a homemade meal. (I can still taste those stuffed shells!)
Nurses have hugged me while I cried uncontrollably through setbacks, felt scared to death, and was so disheartened by health declines. Others decorated my room for every holiday I spent as an inpatient. They’ve lifted my spirits while other people continued on with their lives outside of the hospital.
To all of my nurses: Your kindness and compassion have changed me in the best way. Thanks to you, I’ve witnessed what true servanthood looks like. Going back to when I was a small child in the hospital, I remember all of you and am so grateful for you. You’ve made me feel so valued, and that will forever be a gift. Thank you for being you!
Note: Cystic Fibrosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Cystic Fibrosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to cystic fibrosis.
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