A Nurse’s Journey: Providing Care for a Cherished Family Member

Nancy Blocker

Nancy Blocker, a registered nurse in the post-anesthesia care unit at Columbus Community Hospital, was on call one night, anticipating a routine shift. Little did she know that she would soon be facing a personal crisis that would test her resilience and faith in the health care system.

That night, Nancy received a call from Demi Lusche, a registered nurse in the hospital’s emergency room. The news was devastating: Nancy’s family member, Tom Blocker, had come to the emergency room to receive treatment for a stroke.

When Nancy arrived, she said, she was struck by the sight of her loved one in such a vulnerable state. She had spent her career nurturing others, but now the roles were reversed — it was she who needed comfort and reassurance.

Lusche, her voice calm and reassuring, explained the situation: Tom had suffered a stroke, and time was of the essence. Dr. Robert Miller, the emergency room physician, was already assessing Tom's condition. As a registered nurse herself, Nancy said she understood the gravity of the situation, but Lusche’s expertise and compassion helped her navigate the overwhelming emotions.

Dr. Miller explained the stroke protocol to Nancy and her daughter, ensuring they understood the importance of acting quickly. During this time, Nancy said, her mind was a blur. Regan Debower, a nurse intern in the ER, and Shanon Fittje, a registered nurse, were there every step of the way to help comfort Nancy and her family during this time.

“The care I received at Columbus Community Hospital was truly exceptional," Nancy later recalled. "Everyone made me feel welcome and comforted me during this difficult time. As a nurse, I know the importance of timely and compassionate care, and I experienced that firsthand. I was worried, but I knew Tom was in great hands. There wasn't a single moment when I felt anything but comfort and reassurance."

Doctors at CCH made the decision to transfer Tom to University of Nebraska Medical Center, a specialized stroke center. As the ambulance sirens wailed through the night, Nancy and her daughter accompanied Tom to UNMC, where he received immediate treatment, including medications to dissolve the blood clot and restore blood flow to his brain.

Tom's condition began to improve; he slowly regained his speech and strength, and his face regained its symmetry. The care he received at both Columbus Community Hospital and UNMC was exceptional, Nancy said, and she was filled with gratitude for the dedicated health care professionals who had helped him.

Today, Tom is home, recovering from his stroke. He has a long road ahead, but with the support of his family and the ongoing care of his health care providers, he is hopeful for a full recovery. The experience has been a reminder for the whole family of the fragility of life, and the importance of seeking medical attention promptly when faced with a health emergency.

To learn more about our stroke care services, visit https://www.columbushosp.org/services/emergency-department-and-trauma-services/stroke-care