We met Ashley in August when my dad went to the hospital for the first time (he's had 3 extended stays between then and now). She was his nurse for most of the time he was there. She was so attentive and kind but firm and really pushed him to do the things that he needed to do to get better. She answered all of my mom's questions and supported her through all of the tough emotions she was experiencing. While taking care of my dad was her job, she took care of my mom's emotional needs too. But it doesn't stop there. A few weeks later, my dad was back. Ashley wasn't his nurse this time, but she visited him often on her breaks and truly kept his spirits up. He was glum and frustrated, and her spirit was just infectious and truly brightened his day whenever she would visit. Again, she checked on my mom and continued to make sure she was OK. This time, school had started, and my sister and I both teach over an hour away. We couldn't get to the hospital very often, so it helped knowing she was there for both of them.

Most recently, he was admitted to ICU. A few days in, his curtain whipped open, and Ashley was there. Again, she wasn't his nurse but came down on his break to check on him. She visited a few times on her breaks and really lifted both their spirits. At a time when certain doctors were talking about DNRs and other big, scary things, Ashley provided the light my folks needed. It seems they've finally figured out what's wrong with my dad, and he's finally on his way to recovery. They kicked him out and sent him to Corvallis Manor for rehab, so we're hoping he'll be back in the stands at his grandkids' games soon. But I truly believe that the reason he's doing so well is because Ashley was an integral part of his care, especially in the early days. She is truly a gift to patients and their families. Please take care of her and do what you can to keep her. The world needs more people like her in it.