Fran is a competent nurse; she is also kind. Joan, groggy after surgery, feels a soft hand on her forehead, and a voice whispering in her ear,” The operation was successful. The tumor was benign.” (repeated three times, slowly). These are the words Joan wants most to hear! She sleeps. Later, Fran wakes Joan gently. “I’m going to take your vital signs now, Joan. This is routine. There is nothing to worry about.”

When Joan next wakes, Fran smiles and says, ”You’re doing fine. I’m going to give you a slight prick in the rear with pain medication. Okay? Good. Now, how about a fresh gown? I’ll roll you on your side again. Just lift your arm. Now, the other side. All done!”

Back in her hospital room, Joan tells her roommate about Fran. “She treated me with such dignity, as an adult who needed information and gentle care. She made all the difference.”

- Jo Dunne

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