I have been a nurse at Wishard Memorial Hospital for 18 years. In that time, I have experienced more than I could ever imagine: I have witnessed everything from the joy of birth to the compassion, dignity and respect shown to the terminally ill. I have seen more tragedy than I care to admit, too many lives lost too soon. Yet, I also have known many patients who survived and walked out of the hospital after sustaining near-fatal injuries.

I have accomplished this from all perspectives. As a nurse, I have taken care of these patients and comforted their families. I have formed bonds with patients, families and coworkers. As a patient, I gave birth to my daughter at Wishard. As a family member, I have fully trusted Wishard. Wishard has helped my family prepare for the future loss of my grandmother. Wishard has mended my oldest son from bicycle injuries, broken bones and infections. When my youngest son was involved in a boating accident, I insisted that he be flown to Wishard. I knew that Wishard was his only chance of survival.

Although he did not survive the accident, I would not have survived without the support and love from my Wishard family. At this time, I hope the community is aware of what a truly incredible place Wishard is and why it is so important to have a new facility to continue the wonderful care that it provides.

Stacey Hilgemeier

Brownsburg