Alex was taking care of a patient on comfort care who had been estranged from family for many years. During Alex's time with the patient, he offered end-of-life care that provided the patient comfort and dignity. He also found a way to impact the patient's family and allowed them the means to say goodbye in a very meaningful way. Alex used his own personal phone to allow the patient's son to FaceTime and say goodbye, and offer forgiveness and peace in the patient's passing as they had been estranged for years. The patient shortly passed after that encounter. Then a sister made it to town and Alex continued to offer his phone and support so the sister and the patient's son could talk. The sister then let me know, after the patient passed and she was leaving the hospital that Alex had provided their family a means of closure that she didn't think was possible after all their years of not speaking. She was so grateful, and Alex did an amazing job of handling a complex situation that you only get one chance to handle.

Alex's actions not only provided the patient and family with a dignified and peaceful death he also touched his coworkers with his kindness, and many told me how moved they were by his actions and the extra time he took with the patient and his family. He inspired me to think outside the box and really look for opportunities to serve even when it is complicated or seems messy.