Shout out to 5C!

For the past three years I have worked on 5 Central (5C/5W for the first 2 years) at UVa Medical Center. I want to take a moment to thank my friends there who have been so supportive of this adventure. Let’s face it, “Digestive Health” isn’t always the most glamorous line of work, and 5 Central can be a tough place (just grab a chair & ask any of us, we’ll fill your ear with plenty of stories!). But, 5 Central is composed of an amazing group of people who have created a space where I have been able to learn and mature while feeling truly cared for and respected. If you ever have the misfortune of having a digestive illness, I hope that you at least have the great fortune of finding yourself in their care.

Dear 5C,
It was very hard for me to have to say a temporary goodbye, but I know that you understand and I can’t thank you enough for your support. I look forward to seeing you again in February (or sooner if you want to escape from the cold…). I think over time you all learned bits and pieces of my stresses of the past couple years. Even without knowing, you helped to lift me on my dark days. Your smiles, funny stories, warm hugs and kind touches helped bring me back to life. You worried about me when I wasn’t able to worry about myself. In some ways, I guess I understand a bit better how our patients feel when they are in your care and why they sometimes bond so tightly to you (sometimes more than we want, ha ha!).

With a huge grin on my face, I must also thank you for the advice and words of wisdom. Tidbits like, “Men are like buses; don’t worry if you miss one because another will be coming along soon.” :) Some of you had rather interesting/colorful suggestions on how to improve my life, health, and general happiness (special mention here must go to Sue & Cheryl – love you guys!). Thank you.

I guess there was also the occasional work going on as well. :) On the subject of my professional life, I feel like you have, in a sense, raised me. I came to you as a new grad from UNC, unsure of myself and my surroundings. You have taught me well and supported my professional growth. The nurse that I am today is a reflection of you, and I hope to make you proud. As I go out and about, I will try my best to represent you well.

With love and great thanks,
Trish