Collette Hurd had a hard year, but thanks to her amazing medical team, she got a chance to experience a unique anniversary celebration with her closest people.
Hurd who’s 57 was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension last year. This rare illness causes hypertension in the arteries of the heart and lungs.
She had to be admitted into the Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago in May and await a double-lung transplant. But the doctors also concluded she’ll need a kidney transplant as well due to complications from her primary illness.
Hurd Has Been Waiting for a Transplant since July
The hospital explained that Hurd was on the list for a double-lung and double-kidney transplant and has been waiting since July. During her stay in the hospital, she captured the hearts of the staff.
They adore Hurd and say she’s a wonderful person.
One of the staff workers, Kari Brouwer, said how Hurd knows when it’s not your day. She once told her that when she heads for a walk, she passes through patients’ rooms and prays for all of them.
She also prays for the staff.
Brouwer added that having her in the ICU is a bright light and she’s a person who renews your hope and helps you get the needed strength to get on with your day.
Brouwer also said how Hurd reminds you every day of the reasons why you became part of healthcare.
A Heartwarming Surprise for Hurd Planned by the Hospital Staff
Hurd’s 20th wedding anniversary was approaching and the staff knew this. They wanted to surprise her for this special occasion and they did.
They worked together with her husband to make a small vow renewal ceremony in the chapel of the building.
The staff members dressed Hurd in a white robe that had the word ‘bride’ written on the back. They placed blue butterfly stickers on her shoes and Hurd and her husband toasted with a sparkling grape juice.
The staff said this was the least they could do for one of their best patients. Another staff member, Carey McGarvey explains that even in an ICU setting, Hurd wakes up with a smile on her face. She’s so genuine and really cares for everyone.
She’s a person who gives you a lovely ‘hanging out with a friend’ kind of vibe.
Megan Burwell who works as a physical therapist at the hospital says Hurd is a ‘shining light’, particularly in the pandemic. Most of the patients there didn’t have visitors or family so the staff was their only support and physical contact.
Hurd adores butterflies and for Megan, Hurd is her butterfly. This doesn’t mean that she didn’t have difficult days, but she’s always so positive, even after she had a bad day. It’s her personality and heart-they’re contagious!
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