It all began when Allen was feeling not quite right and was rushed to the ER by his children, Ron and Kathy. The medical team at Castle Rock AdventHealth swiftly took over, diagnosing Allen with a stroke. The exceptional care and efficient response from the ER team were just the beginning of what would turn into a remarkable journey of recovery and compassion for Allen and his family.
Transferred to the ICU, Allen's situation was critical but stable, thanks to the careful attention of the hospital staff. During his five-day stay, the nurses and doctors went beyond their basic medical duties to ensure Allen felt supported and cared for, especially as he faced his 90th birthday that very week.
"One of the most touching moments," his daughter Kathy recalls, "was how the nurses celebrated Dad's birthday. They brought balloons, a card, and even ice cream after their shift. It wasn't just a celebration; it was a declaration of their dedication to making patients feel at home."
The level of empathy shown by the AdventHealth team was profound. Having lost his wife earlier this year, Allen found solace in the kind gestures and comforting words of the staff.
"The way they treated me, it was like they knew what I was going through," Allen shared, his voice heavy with gratitude. "They didn’t just look after my health; they cared for my heart."
As he prepared for discharge from the hospital, the nurses came to offer personal goodbyes and well wishes.
Moved by the extraordinary care he received during his stay, Allen Gresham took a heartfelt step to express his gratitude by nominating the entire nursing staff at Castle Rock AdventHealth for a DAISY Award. The DAISY Award is a prestigious national program established to recognize and celebrate the exceptional compassion and skill that nurses display in their interactions with patients and their families.
Allen's nomination was an acknowledgment to the profound impact that the AdventHealth nurses had on his recovery and overall experience during a particularly vulnerable time. From a family member’s perspective, Kathy and Ron praised the hospital for its transparency and communication.
"Staying informed was indispensable, and the staff made sure of that," Kathy said. "Their thoroughness reassured us immensely, and the fact that I could stay by Dad’s side the whole time made a world of difference."
Their experience with other parts of the hospital were equally positive. "It didn’t matter where I was; staff would always stop to ask if I needed help or had any questions. It was like having a guardian angel in every hallway."
Reflecting on his experience, Allen expressed a resolute preference for AdventHealth should he need hospital care in the future.
"While many might head north for care, I’d tell them to consider our local gem right here in Castle Rock. It’s not just convenient; it’s exemplary."
His story not only emphasizes the clinical excellence of AdventHealth but also highlights its commitment to compassionate care. In a world where healthcare often becomes a routine service, Castle Rock AdventHealth stands out by ensuring that every patient's needs are met and every heart is touched—even in the most challenging times.
"Next time I'm feeling under the weather," Allen joked with a twinkle in his eye, "I might just miss the nurses too much and pop in for a visit!"
"They didn’t just look after my health; they cared for my heart."
"It was like having a guardian angel in every hallway."