Anna embodies the definition and qualities of an excellent nurse. When I first met Anna, I was struck by her soft voice and gentle demeanor. She truly is so sweet. She may joke around a little, but none of it is mean-spirited in the least.

 How refreshing it is to work with a nurse who does not succumb to this commonality. I really knew that Anna was a genuine person one day, a few weeks ago, when she came on her day off from work to bring food for the food pantry at the hospital. She was concerned because of the reduction in food benefits. Commendable to say the least.

I was having anxiety at work, and she made me feel better. She actively listened, was present, and non-judgmental. Not only did I experience her healing touch, but I also observed these gifts of hers with the patients. Working together with integrity and kindness is what makes a unit healthy and what nursing is supposed to encompass.