Celebrities

Since I've been here, we've had quite a few famous people come to visit...President Obama, Vice-President Biden, Robin Williams, Kix Brooks, Admiral Mullens (Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff), Santa Claus, General Schwartz, the Surgeon General and all the services surgeon generals, Chief Nurse of the Air Force (Maj Gen Sinischalchi) and today Montel Williams.  But the most important celebrity I've met was Seaman Elliott. 

Me and Montel

This person was with the entourage that came with Montel and she recognized me.  She said "I know you don't remember me but I remember you.  You took care of my brother." I was just amazed that this person took the time to acknowledge me and thanked me for taking care of her brother.  He came in during the mass cal we had a couple of weeks ago and he was burned.  She let me know that not only was her brother doing so well but the other two soldiers that were with him were also doing great and would be returning to duty!  This was so exciting for me to hear.  I took her to Col McNeill and when she thanked Col McNeill, they both became misty eyed.  This is what being a nurse is all about.  It isn't about the crappy docs you have to deal with or the patients who can be total jerks or the other nurses who want to bring you down.  It's about the patients and families who are grateful for what you do and taking care of their them or their family members.  I wish I had more to write but it was such an awesome moment, words can't describe.  Thank you Elliott Family for the privilege of taking care of you.

SSgt Castillo, Seaman Elliott and me