Saturday is the start of Nurses Week and what better way to kick off the celebration by introducing you to one of the finest from the University of Kansas Health System.
What's your name and where do you work?
Judy Ray, University of Kansas Health System Neurology Department
What do you do at the University of Kansas Health System and how long have you been there?
Recently, I have changed positions from Neuromuscular Nurse of 13 years to Infusion Nurse Coordinator.
Before you landed started at KU, had you heard of myasthenia gravis?
When working at St. Lukes South while in school we had one patient with MG and in school it was briefly discussed and I mean brief.
What’s the one thing you wish all patients could know?
If you know me I cannot pick just one thing. MG is not a death sentence and with treatment, listening to your body, you can live a normal life after figuring out what your “new norm” is.
Try to go with the flow and realize your “norm” may change. Do not be afraid to reach out to your health care TEAM. If they do not listen then you deserve to find a TEAM that will be there for you. Develop a support system that will “ tell on you “ when you have changes that you may not notice because you feel it is just my life now.
Is there anything your patients have taught you?
Take your time and listen. Patience
Any parting words?
Treat everyone the way you want to be treated. No one knows what tomorrow will bring.
Thanks Judy for sharing with us! And to all of the nurses out there, we appreciate you and want to wish you a Happy Nurses Week!