Nurses celebrate refreshed break room at NGH

(Photo left to right: David Boll; Ellen Whelan; John Lloy; Angela Whelan; and Andrew Boll)

Nurses working long and demanding shifts in the bustling 3B Medical/Surgical Unit can now find solace and relaxation in a newly created haven, thanks to the generous hearts of Ellen Whelan and her brother, David Boll. The heartfelt gift from these compassionate siblings has given birth to a much-needed refreshed break room on the third floor of the 3B Unit, ensuring nurses have a comfortable space to recharge before resuming their noble calling of delivering compassionate care.

Ellen and David’s mother, Mary Boll, a remarkable Labor and Delivery Registered Nurse, dedicated her career to serving on the 3B Unit. In the nursery and delivery room, she lovingly nurtured new mothers and their precious newborns, leaving an enduring legacy of love and care.

The break room features new paint, furniture and framed artwork. There is a new refrigerator and microwave, along with a separate room with lockers for storage.

Ellen, reflecting on her personal connection with NGH’s 3B nurses, spoke fondly of her mother’s dedication and the profound impact the nurses had on her life. The interactions she witnessed while visiting her mother on the floor showcased the nurses’ unwavering support for one another, creating a sense of family that extended beyond the workplace.

“Reflecting on my personal connection with NGH’s 3B nurses, I am reminded of the profound impact they had on my life. My mother, who dedicated her career to nursing here on 3B at NGH, enjoyed working in the nursery and delivery room, creating an environment of love and care for new mothers and babies,” said Ellen. “I loved coming up to the floor to meet my mom at the end of her shift and always enjoyed my interactions with all the nurses who were starting or ending their shifts also. I got to see their unwavering support for each other, and the sense of family they created. They were not just colleagues, but lifelong friends who celebrated each other’s milestones and offered support during difficult times. Their camaraderie went far beyond the workplace, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and friendships.”

A heartfelt dedication ceremony was held on July 14, honoring the new break room with the name “Boll-room.” Hospital officials, along with numerous nurses and retired colleagues, gathered in joyous celebration of this thoughtful addition to their unit.

“Nurses are the unsung heroes who work tirelessly, often unnoticed and underappreciated,” said Ellen. “They spend endless hours on their feet, running from one patient to another, administering medications, monitoring vital signs, and ensuring each person receives the best possible care. Their attention to detail is unparalleled, and they never waver in their commitment to providing safe and effective treatments. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the unwavering dedication of nurses, as they placed themselves on the front lines during a time of great uncertainty. They became the beacons of hope and comfort for those in need, putting their own well-being at risk to care for the sick. We owe them our deepest gratitude.”

Ellen and David’s act of kindness has transformed a simple break room into a space that echoes the love and compassion shown by the nurses on the 3B Unit. As the nurses take moments of respite in their newly created haven, they are reminded that they are appreciated, valued, and cherished for their invaluable contributions to the well-being of their patients and the entire community.

Before and After photos:

Before

After