My sister-n-law L was at Kindred Hospital for long term rehabilitation. She had been on a ventilator for two months and the goal was to transition her off the vent so that she could start rehab. While at Kindred my sister-in-law's condition got worse instead of better. When I showed up on Sunday to be with my brother (L's husband) the nurse on staff Abbie was super kind and warm and respectful. My sister-in-law was not doing well. By Sunday night she had declined even more, and when my brother and I arrived Monday morning we were told that my sister-in-law would not survive.

Over the next two days, there were discussions about removing life support and end-of-life planning. All of us were overwhelmed and heartbroken. During the time from Sunday through Tuesday Abbie was amazing. She was cheerful and respectful and understood the gravity of the situation. She explained my sister-in-law's condition with respect and honesty. When Abbie would come in the room to check on my sister-in-law she would hold her hand and stroke her face and talk to her even though she was in a coma and non-responsive. Abbie asked heartwarming questions like "What is L's favorite music? and What does she enjoy doing?" All of her questions about L were in the present tense because L was still with us. She encouraged us to talk about L and would laugh and smile as we told our stories. She talked to L and included her in our conversations by patting her on the arm to tease her about some story we told. When she spoke to L she used terms of endearment like 'Sweetie' and 'Honey.' Abbie was empathetic and respectful and loving when we told her about our family hardships and loss over the last couple of years. The staff brought us a tray of snacks (without us asking) because they knew the end was near and that we would not want to leave the room. Abbie stayed with us in the room for extended periods of time, especially when discussing end-of-life options. Abbie hugged and patted and consoled us as we grieved. She knew L was passing but she held a space of love and acceptance about the whole process.

When I came back to my sister's house on Tuesday evening I told my sister all about Abbie. And my sister remarked "That's amazing. Too bad Abbie won't be there tomorrow. You know that nurses work three 12-hour shifts so you will have a different nurse tomorrow." But that didn't happen. Abbie called her boss the next morning and asked if she could come in on Wednesday because she felt in her heart that my family was going to need her. And she was right. My sister-in-law L passed away on Wednesday afternoon and Abbie was there the whole time to support us and guide us and console us and cry with us every step of the way. She was respectful and discrete about the care of L's body as her body gave out. (The body does a lot of unsightly things as it draws to an end.) Abbie was amazing through it all. Abbie came to work on her day off to be with my family during our darkest hour. I have never heard of anyone doing something like this. We were all so moved by her kindness and steadfastness and love and support. Nurses are the unsung heroes of our healthcare system. The entire care team at Kindred was amazing but Abbie left an indelible impression on our hearts that will never be forgotten. Thank you, Abbie! 

Note: This is Abbie's 2nd DAISY Award!