"Dear neurosurgery team and ICU nurses@ Hennepin Healthcare,
I was hospitalized September 20, 2017 after suffering from a subarachnoid ruptured aneurysm and stroke. I spent two weeks in the ICU.
I really can't thank all of you enough! I wish I knew each of your names! I know that my personality in the ICU was challenging and at times extremely rude. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for the excellent care you provided...and for putting up with me! Haha
I have continued to thrive and build my strength pretty much back to normal. However as TBI survivors we are altered for life and never unscathed... I hope you enjoy my story!"
Megan Bacigalupo, a local writer, was rushed to HCMC after suffering a subarachnoid ruptured aneurysm and stroke last fall. Today, she is thriving and has regained her strength, and grateful every day for the care she received at Hennepin Healthcare, particularly within the neurosurgery team and the nurses in the ICU.
However, she always had this nagging feeling that she couldn't put behind her. Not only did she not thank her caregivers at Hennepin for saving her life and compassionately caring for her for two weeks in the ICU, but she felt badly that her behavior did not reflect her actual self. She was rude and challenging to the nurses and other staff caring for her. The trauma that she was experiencing turned her into a person she was unfamiliar with and she didn't like her. Looking back, she always had this desire to apologize. Somehow, this would give her closure.
The experts see different and erratic behaviors constantly and understand that in these traumatic situations personalities change and patients aren't always at their best. It's understandable. It's expected – especially when it centers around trauma to the brain.
But it mattered to Megan to express her gratitude and apologies.
She documented her experience in the Edge where she is a contributing writer.
Read In the Cobwebs of my Mind, by Megan Bacigalupo.
