"It is such a relief to have a nurse we can trust so completely. It feels like I have a full set of lungs and can breathe again with Nurse Keisha around."
Keisha began working with Sam last June after winning over his mom with her sign language skills. Keisha only knew a few ASL (American Sign Language) signs at the time, but Sam's mom knew what a difference it would make to have a nurse who could sign.
"It's huge to have someone who understands him and speaks his language," Sam's mom explains. "The connection between patient and nurse when there is no language barrier is like nothing else. Keisha knew a little when she started, and she is learning more with him every day."
Over the past year, Keisha has become a fluent ASL communicator with Sam and often acts as his translator. She is also his advocate and loyal companion, a clinical educator for his mom, and a vital partner with Sam's medical team.
"Same has 108 diagnoses and sees 29 providers," his mom shares. "He has Cri du chat syndrome and hearing and visual impairments. He used to end up in the ICU all the time. When he did, he would spend weeks in the hospital and lose all the skills and progress he had gained. He hasn't been hospitalized once since Keisha started caring for him."
Because of Keisha's attention and care, Sam's physical health has improved dramatically and measurably. And she has made just as big of a difference for his social and emotional health. "Somehow, Keisha has also found a way for Sam to be a regular 7-year-old boy, giving him space to learn, play, and laugh," his mom says. "She doesn't just go above and beyond - she goes above and beyond and beyond and beyond!"
Sam's mom says Nurse Keisha is almost perfect. "I do have one complaint," she jokes. "Keisha is making Sam grow up too fast! He is gaining weight, standing up, and learning something new every day. It just goes to show the impact of consistent, excellent care."
Nurse Keisha's care is life-giving and life-changing for Sam and his family. We can't thank her enough for her dedication, skill, and compassion. And we can't wait to see how Sam continues to progress with her help!
If you are a nurse who would like to make a difference in patients' lives like Keisha does, join the Aveanna team today!