It’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day grind, especially in demanding professions like nursing. But sometimes, a simple act of kindness can remind us of the profound impact we can have on another person’s life.
This is the story of Sarah, a dedicated nurse at County General Hospital. She encountered Mrs. Davis, an 82-year-old woman admitted for a recurring heart condition. During a routine check-up, Sarah noticed Mrs. Davis seemed unusually distressed.
“Is everything alright, Mrs. Davis?” Sarah asked gently.
Tears welled up in the elderly woman’s eyes. “I… I don’t know how I’m going to afford my medication this month, dear. My social security check barely covers rent and food. I’m afraid I’ll have to go without.”
Sarah’s heart ached. She knew the vital importance of Mrs. Davis’s medication. Without it, her condition could rapidly deteriorate. After excusing herself, Sarah went to talk with another nurse and the hospital social worker. She quickly return distraught as she told everyone she was unable to help.
But Sarah refused to give up.
After her shift, Sarah went to the pharmacy. The pharmacist gave her a concerning look, being that Sarah was not the patient, but Sarah pleaded with him and explained the situation. She asked if there are any discounts, or coupons that may be applicable here.
Sarah then emptied her own wallet and purchased Mrs. Davis’s medication anonymously. She left it and a note at the front desk for the on coming nurse to give to Mrs. Davis. The note reads: “You are NOT alone.”
The next day, Sarah found Mrs. Davis beaming. “I don’t know who did this, dear, but I want you to know that my faith in humanity has been restored!” With tears, she continued – “I will pay it forward.”
Sarah simply smiled, her heart full. She didn’t do it for recognition; she did it because it was the right thing to do. In a world that often feels cold and indifferent, Sarah’s act of compassion reminds us that even small gestures can make a world of difference. We need more stories like this to inspire us to be kinder, more empathetic, and more willing to help those in need. Let’s all strive to be a little more like Sarah.
