Vice President
Patient Care
Barnes-Jewish Hospital
St. Louis, MO 63110
We have written to you about our warm feelings about Kay Gundy’s care of my niece, Karen Weir. But Kay was just one of a group of professionals who became so important to Karen and therefore to us. Karen is back in rehab now that her halo has been removed and we are getting a second chance to see some of these fine individuals again.
The people listed below are the real strength of the second floor Rehabilitation Department. We have been fortunate: Karen has been in an environment where she has received superior care administered by many decent and humane people. And we want to highlight some of these outstanding individuals we have met who are caring for her. This is an opportunity we do not want to miss. We want to publicly acknowledge some of these special caregivers.
We must commend the upbeat and positive Amy Niehaus who attended to Karen’s "look" as much as her physical progress. She styled Karen’s hair in spite of her halo rods. And while Amy and Karen often talked the serious and deep talk, Amy could make Karen laugh. Amy made Karen believe. She was so comforting and soothing to Karen--that is unless they were being raucous and silly and life-affirming humans who have futures to live.
Laura Schwartz wrote "Smile. Someone loves you." on Karen’s dry erase board at a time when we all needed for Karen to find a reason to smile. Laura gave Karen confidence by always reassuring her that her care was being well managed because Laura was paying attention to the smallest of details. When Laura was on, Karen felt she would be especially well taken care of because Laura made it clear that she wanted the best for Karen. Laura’s sense of humor could match wits with Karen long enough to remind us all that life can still be enjoyed and laughter is a great antidote to pain.
Sylvia Zaiz was the leader. Sylvia washed Karen’s hair and made all of us believe everything would be O.K. when Karen had only been on the floor for 24 hours. Sylvia made Karen believe she would enjoy her life again, at least as much as before her accident.
Joyce Richmond constantly gave Karen practical advice, no nonsense facts always delivered with a wry smile. She could explain a new skill to Karen simply, directly. Answer all questions even the ones Karen didn’t ask. And she could make Karen laugh and for a moment feel light-hearted. And this is the woman who gave Karen the long straw that would fit into her drinking bottle so she could drink from a reclining position. And that straw is still in use today.
Robert Nathe was the quiet and serious and very tender nurse. Jerry Spates reminded Karen of the value of patience. Deadryea Martin with the most dazzling smile had such a sweet, and loving nature. Sarah Richter, Johnnie Hubbard and Ella Lewis! (oh, that wonderful Ella. So helpful. So kind. Always smiling, always attentive to Karen). Each of these people were so important, so much a part of a team. They have been dedicated to positive education and training and yet have been so supportive of where Karen was each day, mentally and physically. They are a most sensitive bunch.
And Karen’s therapists: Jana Leabig (PT) who Karen repeatedly praised as "the best PT all around. She knows how to inspire me to work!" Jana delivered her teaching to Karen in unusual ways. Karen accomplished physical movement and increased her strength as she increased her confidence almost without knowing it was all Jana’s plan. Jana was a special part of the daily routine that Karen looked forward to as one looks forward to seeing a good friend who will make you feel better.
Kelly Givens (OT) was also important to Karen’s growing improvement. Kelly made Karen do patterns of all kinds to get her fine motor skills working again. And she encouraged Karen to get dressed each day even when Karen hated it and the effort hurt her physically. Kelly continues to shower love on Karen. She has been encouraging, thoughtful, kind and sweet.
Diane Suter (RT) took Karen fishing in week two before any of us could fathom adventures ahead for Karen. "Of course you can go. Of course you’ll have fun." And I remember on July 4th, when Diane stopped by on her own time just to check in, to see how Karen was doing and to talk to her like a person of value. She has since made time to see Karen outside the hospital environment and we all enjoy seeing her high-energy behavior and great positive outlook.
These three therapists empowered Karen as they gave her strategies for dealing with life. They literally gave her the flexibility to take on new responsibilities each day.
And finally, I must praise Eddie Townsend. He is the spiritual leader. He is the man who has a smile of such brilliance and kindness and love that to see Eddie smile is to be closer to G-d. Eddie smiled when Karen struggled and assured her that he would be with her. Eddie could help Karen when no one else could. He could sense where her pain was, whether in body or soul, and he could comfort her. And Zandra McCann was another great spiritual presence who was tender and caring and very comforting to us all as she quietly went about her work. She soothed Karen when she was in pain.
This second floor has so many individuals who performed their jobs with such love and devotion. We are grateful for their help and their attention to Karen. There is nothing we wouldn’t do for them in return. I wish I could write with the eloquence they displayed in their every day duties.
"This is fish worthy behavior!!" Karen proclaims.
We are so grateful to all of you who showed Karen the care, the love and respect she so deserves. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do.
On behalf of my niece,
Karen Weir,
Sincerely yours,
Mindy Keyser