While caring for a young COVID patient in MICU during the holiday season, Andrew made a connection with the patient and her father. The patient was very critical at times and her prognosis was poor. There were a lot of days when things were uncertain. The patient’s course turned the corner and the patient began to improve. During this time, Andrew was privy to a conversation shared between the patient and her father.

The patient mentioned wanting Air Pods as a Christmas gift. The father responded hesitantly, “we will see, things are a little tight this year”. Andrew could not stop thinking of this patient, who unfortunately would be in the hospital during Christmas. He thought of her Dad too, who was at her bedside daily but wouldn’t be able to get his young daughter air pods for Christmas. Andrew came up to the unit on his off day, just before Christmas, bearing a gift for this young female patient.

The father was surprised to see Andrew in his street clothes and the two quickly shared a conversation. Andrew then donned PPE and went in to check on the patient. Unknown to the staff working and as a total surprise to the patient, Andrew presented the patient with a pair of Air Pods! Of course, the patient and her Dad were surprised and awed by his gift and generosity. Andrew mentioned that he and his wife would have it no other way and this was something a quick trip to Target would take care of! Andrew recently joined our team and we are so grateful to have him as an Associate! We are even more thankful for his embodiment of our guiding values! Thanks to Andrew for making this Christmas special for this young lady and her father!