I was moved from the ER to a room in the Farr Building at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, (BIDMC) and was seen by numerous nurses, neurologists, oncologists, and residents, as well as my surgeon, Dr. Rafael Vega.
My surgery was scheduled for Thursday 7/26 with a stellar team from neurology and oncology. I first met Dr. Vega on Tuesday 7/25 when he came to my room to pay me a visit and discuss the surgery. He is a phenomenal man with a true gift which he takes in stride. I would describe him as very warm, down-to-earth and modest. Hard to realize that what he does for work is brain surgery, and saving lives!
As we talked about how I came to the hospital, and he commented on the books I was reading. We got into a discussion about reading fiction versus self-help books, which tend to be my first choice. He said that since he as completed the professional milestones for his career, he was eager to ditch the self-help books and enjoy some fiction. His demeanor was so casual and he was so available.
My daughter Eva wanted to hear the conversation about my surgery in real time, so I asked Dr. Vega if I could call her to listen in. He agreed, and when she picked up the call they had a genuine conversation that sounded like they were good friends. I found that very reassuring and comforting.
The surgery was scheduled for Thursday 8/26 at 11:30am. Dr. Vega said he was going to get 99% of the tumor and that any less was unacceptable. He also said that I would be awake during the 5 hour surgery so they be certain that the only part of the brain he was working with was the part that controlled speech, where the tumor was. More about the surgery later!
My nurses at Farr were so caring and attentive. I now have a deep appreciation for the people who work in healthcare. My three special nurses were Meghann S, Janelle A., and Kaitlyn A., who went above and beyond to help me feel as comfortable and cared for as possible. I looked forward to them checking in on me and was continuously grateful for everything they did. They took the time for short conversations on books, family life and global issues.
When there was a debate about being discharged for two days before my schedules surgery, the nurses helped me figure out what was best and most practical for me under the circumstances.
I have been so fortunate to be a healthy person, and being in the hospital allowed me to witness a whole different culture of people who are deeply committed to what they do every day.
I just cannot say enough about the doctors and nurses who were there for me and what a testament it is to BIDMC as world-class hospital to deliver this level of care. If everyone cared so much about their career, their job, and their vocation, this world would be truly amazing. I totally felt the love!