I would like to recognize Nurse Andrea Smith after experiencing her care of Mr. M on Thanksgiving Day. Mr. T is a longtime acquaintance of mine – I graduated high school with his daughter and son-in-law. Mr. T has had an LVAD (left ventricular assist device) for the last 8.5 years and we have provided care for him at our hospital many times during that time period. On Thanksgiving Day, his son-in-law called and informed me that Mr. T was experiencing LVAD dysfunction and had collapsed at home. EMS was transporting him to the ER at MMCN. I quickly showered and came to the hospital to meet them. Mr. T was very sick at that point, and the family understood that these were likely his final moments. I was with the family as the doctor, nurse Andrea Smith, had a discussion with the family regarding the goals of care and how they would like to proceed. After the doctor had spoken with the LVAD physician at UAB, the decision was made to disconnect his LVAD here at MMCN and allow him to pass peacefully. It was at this point that Andrea took over and reminded me why our hospital is special. She spoke with the LVAD coordinator at UAB and received instructions on how to disconnect the LVAD. All of Mr. T’s family was able to be in the room with him and say their goodbyes. After administering medications to make him comfortable, she tearfully disconnected the LVAD. She spent a great deal of time comforting the family and giving them ample time to make arrangements to move forward. Afterward, his son-in-law texted me and said, “Thank you. That is what I can say." Those words don’t seem to be enough, but that’s all I got. Please share this with Andrea. She was awesome. 

Witnessing Andrea shed tears with a family that she does not know personally reminded me of what makes our hospital special – it’s all about the people. Mr. T’s family was able to be in a place where the folks providing the care to their loved one felt true compassion from those tasked with taking care of them, even during a difficult and tumultuous time. Andrea deserves recognition for her compassion, and I am glad to be able to recognize her!