A couple months ago I developed a bad case of chest congestion. It seemed that all I did was cough, hark and spit. I don't know how that much of gunk can come out of one person. As the congestion seemed to go away another problem popped up.
The new problem was when I got up to walk to another room, suddenly the rate of my breathing and heart rate would increase greatly. At times this scared me as it seemed I could get no air. Finally this hard-headed man went to his medical professional. In less than 10 minutes of observation and checking vital signs told me to go straight to the emergency room and she would make arraignments.
Wanda and I arrived at the emergency room at Memorial Hospital. As with most hospitals the ER is usually busy. I observed the staff was taking care of people and their needs. When our time came we were taken to an examination room, interviewed, met with the cardiologist, had a chest ex-ray for pneumonia and then taken to a room. Over the next couple of days there would be more tests. There would be an arteriogram, echocardiogram and several others. Going to and from these test I was always met with smiles and words of encouragement.
What really caught my attention were the attitude of staff that took care of my daily needs. The nurses, CNA's, those that cleaned, breathing sessions, etc. This group were made up mostly of young adults that took their responsibility seriously. When there were a mess or two they took charge of me and would say, "Mr. Kennedy, just sit over here and we will take care of it."
Should you ever be in Room 205 and have these young pros assigned to your care you will be doubly blessed. No one wants to go to the hospital but I can say this is one of the best experiences I have ever had and have been blessed by it.
Our family has often told my wife she has spoiled me. Guess what, this group helped her greatly.
Nicholas (N. D.) Kennedy Sr.
Ooltewah