OAHHS Hospital Voice Spring/Summer 2021

19 Spring/Summer 2021 “This is actually outside under that stadium, and it is even more cold than just plain outside,” said Nielsen. “It’s just like a tunnel effect of the wind.” But in just 17 minutes, George was finished and in the post- vaccine waiting area, surrounded by the warmth of everyone work- ing that day. “Everyone seems to just be generous and so happy to be a part of this.” Nielsen was so grateful for the opportunity to receive protection from the virus, he sat down and wrote a poem to Samaritan CEO Doug Boysen. Here’s an excerpt: “As I sat in the living room after- wards, I suddenly began to cry, I felt a little bit awkward when my wife came and asked why. It told her I felt overwhelmed by the love of all the volunteers. So grateful for every one of you, these truly are loving tears. Thanks Good Sam Health System for your community care. Your footprints and healthy touches are visible everywhere.” Nielsen has a long history of love, respect, and appreciation for nurses and other caregivers. Orig- inally from Denmark, Nielsen has been blessed by nurses for decades. His wife was an ER nurse. “My daughter-in-law is a nurse, and when my wife passed away after 52 years of marriage, I mar- ried her best friend, and she’s a nurse.” “My daughter graduated as a teacher, but then she decided she wanted to be a nurse, and she is now one of the nurses at Good Samaritan,” said George. “I’m surrounded by health!” Nielsen said he’s glad that nurses and other frontline caregivers are being recognized for their heroic efforts, something he’s seen first- hand for decades. “Even outside of the pandemic, I don’t think we give enough credit to nurses and doctors and all the people involved when we are treated. We take it so for granted.” “Nurses are willing to sacrifice their lives. Many have gone to hot spots throughout the country. I’m just amazed at the willingness of their response.” Now Nielsen feels the relief that the vaccine brings, and he is enjoying being able to gather safely with friends and family. “Today, I feel so secure.” In just 17 minutes, George was finished and in the post- vaccine waiting area, surrounded by the warmth of everyone working that day. “Everyone seems to just be generous and so happy to be a part of this.”