I was aware throughout this process of work conditions in Hospitals throughout the country but especially in Palm Beach County Florida. All hospital staff is dedicated to helping patients get well. They are also extremely overworked. As a patient I did not want to increase their burden so I developed my patient credo.

• I would thank everyone who came to assist me. Every time without exception. The staff at the hospital is there to help and should be commended for the work they have done throughout this pandemic.
• When given the opportunity, I would acknowledge the great care they were providing me. While it might seem overdone, it was not false. My episode increased their workload, it was neither there fault nor mine, but it was true.
• There were several times that incidents occurred where the staff might have thought they annoyed me. I tried to immediately point out it was the situation and while an alternative choice might have been possible, there might be times the alternative was incorrect as well. I let them know that I knew their hearts were in the right place and we were okay.
• As I improved, I wanted to find ways to make their lives easier. I had no desire to increase my limits in ways which were unsafe, but I did want to get better. They wanted me to get better as well. An example of this is by Wednesday, still in the ICU and approved through therapy, I was free to move about to the limits of my tethers within in my room. I took most meals in a chair in my room. They were as happy with this arrangement as I was. Because of the work we had done earlier created the trust needed.

This is my true belief right down to my core. I cared for throughout my stay at the hospital by angels (both women and men) of mercy. If there is anyway that I can reduce their burden I would do it gladly.