11/20/2021
About this time 7 years ago working as a Hospice nurse, I was instructed that I would have a new patient, she was a little feisty and was adamant that the "first Nurse" was not allowed back into her house, telling the Office, I wont let her in the door. ...I thought oh great, this will be fun. Carrie's admission took well over 2 hours, because it turned out that together, we had the give of gab. We're actually both pretty cool ladies lol
From then on, my visits with Carrie were something I looked forward to. Seeing her several times a week on Official Business and the other days for Lunch with Sam& Dean( Both supernatural junkies) With each visit our friendship grew. We had an almost instant bond, and it never weakened or swayed. I took Carrie on 4 wheelers and jet skis for the first time, seeing her eyes light up as she flew down DD Hwy with her hand pumping in the air screaming woohoo--is when I realized-My friend is crazy- No wonder God matched us..The stories and memories I could share--priceless.
Carrie would tell anyone who would listen that Dr Sunshine saved her, what she never understood was she saved me. I was states away from family and friends. I was in a new job as a hospice nurse, and so much more going on. I am not the easiest person to get close to. But Carrie, she was an instant add to my inner circle and my heart. Carrie truly was one of the kindest, genuine, loyal people I had ever met- she truly would go without if it meant she could help you. She was selfless, more stubborn than an ox, promise keeper, my encourager- my Biggest Fan. One of the hardest things to do was tell her I was moving back to Illinois. We made a pact that we would stay in touch, something neither of us are good at. And we did, Carrie would go out of her way to see me every visit I made. We had camping trips, lake days, Birthday celebrations, many hotel room dinners, adventures and I will always treasure them all.
Over the years, Carrie faced many health obstacles, she would call me and say " The doctor says this, what do you think?" then she would say, I will only do it if Dr Sunshine and Jordan agree--lol- she had real doctors believing on several occasions that she would have to consult with Dr Sunshine...id tell her-You know I am not anywhere close to a doctor Carrie, shed smile and say well you know more than those....God I am going to miss her.
Carrie blessed me with moving here, into our home, the last several weeks. Getting some much needed Carrie time, being able to say good bye and keep my promise that I would be by her side when she got her angel wings--Fly High with Diana bestie--youve earned it!! Ill be looking for my Cardinals and Butterflies
Carrie Couzens 6/12/63-11/19/2021
A special thank you to Safe haven Hospice, they were amazing- we couldn't of asked for better support, care and guidance.
