When you have been a nurse as long as I have there are patients who take residence in your memories and resurface frequently. They could almost be family except they have a short history in your li…
There Are Some Patients We Never Forget
By Marianna Crane
After a long career in nursing--I was one of the first certified gerontological nurse practitioners--I am now a writer. My writings center around patients I have had over the years that continue to haunt my memory unless I record their stories. In addition, I write about growing older, confronting ageism, creativity and food. My memoir, "Stories from the Tenth Floor Clinic: A Nurse Practitioner Remembers" is available where ever books are sold.
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Nursing Stories: Memories of an Older Nurse 
Hello Marianna,
Just last week I drove past the street where this patient lived. His house has been torn down and a brand new home sits on that lot. Time marches on but I still remember this man and his end-of-life struggles and sadness. I wish him peace.
Jane VDV
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Thanks for the update, Jane. I, too, wish him peace.
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Thoughtful article. I remember a patient admitted with a simple fractured femur but after testing found to be due to multiple myeloma. His grace in accepting his diagnosis and courage to face treatment has been an inspiration to me. It’s been 40 years but I still recall his name and dream of him occasionally.
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