Alexis brought a veteran into Same Day Surgery (SDS) to get them ready for their planned vascular surgery and upon arriving at the SDS bay, the veteran distraughtly began telling Alexis how nervous he felt due to bad experiences in the past with surgery and anesthesia. The veteran reported a memory of waking up during the middle of his last surgery with the surgeon concerned about his breathing and pulse. Alexis actively listened to the veteran as he extensively explained to her what he experienced and how it made him feel. When the veteran had finished speaking, she calmly and compassionately explained to him the process for the end of surgery wake up from anesthesia and the surgeon’s role in ensuring their patient’s wellbeing prior to leaving the OR. Alexis explained to the veteran exactly what she would be doing to prepare him for his surgery, all staff members that would be coming to meet him prior to surgery along with their roles and explained in depth the post-op recovery and discharge process. Alexis took her time with the veteran and did not attempt to move forward in the pre-op admission process until all his questions were answered and he stated he felt much calmer. The veteran expressed so much gratitude and relief after speaking with Alexis. I witnessed the entire interaction while waiting in the SDS area for my own patient, and I was beyond impressed by how well she listened to him, allowed him time to express all his concerns, and addressed them each individually, thoroughly, and with so much compassion in her voice and words. Awesome job Alexis! As this veteran told you, you made such a positive difference in his surgical experience and exemplified excellent nursing care.