A grateful gesture from a quilting patient
A recent patient shows her deep appreciation for two nurses who went above and beyond.
In a heartwarming story of gratitude and compassion, Kathlene Hamilton, a recent patient at HCA HealthONE Rose, decided to show her deep appreciation for two exceptional nurses who went above and beyond in caring for her during her recovery. Kathlene’s thoughtful gesture involved creating personalized quilts for Craig and Suzanne, two nurses who made a significant impact on her during her stay.
Why quilts? A personal thank-you
In June 2024, Kathlene underwent a back-fusion surgery at HCA HealthONE Rose, and while she received excellent care from the hospital staff, two nurses—Craig and Suzanne—stood out for their extraordinary kindness and support. She recalls that she wanted to express her gratitude in a meaningful way that would reflect how much their care meant to her.
"[They] went above and beyond their typical job responsibilities to comfort and care for me during my stay," Kathlene explains. "I wanted to find a way to express my gratitude and thank them for the level of care they provided."
The answer came in the form of quilts. As a quilter of 20 years, she felt that making a quilt would be a personal and lasting way to show her appreciation. "The only thing I could think of was to make them a quilt and provide them a bit of comfort, as they had done for me," Kathlene says. With the hospital’s approval, she began her project—sewing two quilts for the nurses.
A nurse who never complained: Craig’s support
Kathlene’s time at the hospital was challenging, but Craig’s unwavering support helped ease her anxiety. "On my 3rd day at [HCA HealthONE Rose], I needed to call Craig over 50 times to assist me in and out of the bathroom," she recalls. Despite the frequency of the calls, he remained patient, calm, and compassionate. "Craig never batted an eye, raised his voice, or seemed put out," she says. "He graciously rushed me to the bathroom and then back to bed when I was ready."
For Kathlene, Craig’s unflinching dedication to her comfort and care made all the difference. "I felt bad enough from the surgery, and then to need his assistance so many times in 12 hours, my anxiety kept increasing," she admits. "But [his] mannerisms of sincere care reassured me he was okay with my condition and willing to help with whatever it took to make me comfortable. Craig is a gracious soul!"
A nurse who went the extra mile: Suzanne’s caring nature
During Kathlene’s stay, Suzanne served as her nurse for two nights, and it didn’t take long for Kathlene to notice the nurse’s exceptional care. "She displayed genuine concern for me and did everything possible to aid and assist me," Kathlene says. Suzanne’s compassion was not only evident in her interactions during her shifts, but also in her efforts outside of work hours. "Even when she wasn’t on the clock, [she] would stop by to ensure that I felt comfortable and that my recovery was progressing," Kathlene recalls. "I truly appreciated how Suzanne kept me focused on the overall goal of going home. [She] is a very caring and compassionate nurse."
The gift of quilts: a labor of love
Making quilts for the nurses was no small task. Kathlene had to carefully pace herself due to her recent surgery, limiting her sewing time. Despite these challenges, her determination prevailed, and it took her a couple of months to complete the quilts.
As a seasoned quilter with 20 years of experience, she poured her heart and soul into each stitch. She created two quilts—each one a unique symbol of gratitude and love. The quilts not only reflected Kathlene’s personal style, but also her deep appreciation for the two nurses who made her recovery more bearable.
A lasting impact
Kathlene’s gesture of making quilts for Craig and Suzanne is a testament to the lasting impact that compassionate care can have on patients. It is clear that both nurses’ dedication went beyond the professional obligation; they created a space where Kathlene felt safe, supported, and comforted during an incredibly difficult time.
For Kathlene, the quilts served as a tangible way to give back to the nurses who gave so much to her. "[HCA HealthONE Rose] should be incredibly proud to have Craig and Suzanne on their staff!" she exclaims.
In a world where acts of kindness can sometimes go unnoticed, Kathlene’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude and the extraordinary difference that healthcare professionals can make in the lives of their patients.