Two weeks before she was born, Shore 5 Hayes Nurse Valerie Guilfoy, RN, lost her grandmother to breast cancer, which had an incredible lifelong impact on her and her entire family. When Guilfoy was just 10 years old, her mother was injured in a car accident and needed medical care her whole life as a result.
“As the oldest child, I naturally fell into the role of caretaker after my mom was injured, taking care of both my siblings and my mother. That experience was very rewarding and it made me realize that caring for others is what I was meant to do for the rest of my life,” says Guilfoy.
As a nurse on Shore’s 5 Hayes Unit, Valerie Guilfoy, RN, believes that her most meaningful work is connecting with patients on a personal level to bring them comfort during a difficult time.
Guilfoy has been with Shore Medical Center since 2011, and she has been part of the 5 Hayes team for the past 10 years. She primarily works with cancer patients, as well as a mixture of patients with various medical and surgical needs, such as hospice care. Guilfoy’s role is to assess a patient’s unique circumstances and provide the specific care they require.
“Sometimes it’s the simple things that go a long way in helping patients feel as comfortable as they can be,” Guilfoy says. “I’m always sure to check in and see if I can do anything for the patients and their families, whether it’s bringing them something to eat, adjusting the temperature in the room, or managing their pain. Finding the balance of meeting patients’ needs without being overwhelming is crucial to helping them feel at peace.”
Many of the cancer patients on 5 Hayes have been receiving care from Shore for many years, allowing Guilfoy the opportunity to get to know the patients and their families. She has also been with some patients from when they are first diagnosed.
“I want to be there for these patients on every step of the journey, and do everything I can to help them through a difficult time. That means providing the best clinical care, but it also means listening to them, getting to know them, and having a conversation with them,” she explains. “I love getting to talk to patients and learn about their lives. It provides them comfort and it helps take their mind off what they are going through, even if it’s just for a short time. Cultivating a personal relationship with the people I care for is one of the best parts of being a nurse, and I am fortunate to have that opportunity as a member of the 5 Hayes team.”
