Our father was accepted into the care of the CVICU after suffering a cardiac event playing pickleball. While we never could imagine what the next three days would bring, we had the most extraordinary nurse by our side. His name is Abdi. How is it possible that this young medical professional felt immediately like a loving member of our family? From our first interaction with Abdi; his compassion, knowledge, and follow-through with the handling of our father’s condition were exceptional. He explained the medical information to us with a profound balance of tenderness, composure, and expertise. Abdi was a calm presence for us. He took the sting out of a potentially unbearable situation and made it bearable. He combed our father’s hair, brushed his teeth, and attended to his eyes, lips, and mouth to make sure they weren’t dry. He gave us our space when we needed it and leaned in to encourage us when it was necessary and when had had to make important decisions. Abdi was always there for emotional support. Abdi gently helped us in processing our decisions. We will forever be indebted to Abdi for his gentle loving care of our father during his final days.