Today, I had the absolute privilege of caring for a patient that you had been the caregiver the prior three evenings. This patient was "young" with a new diagnosis of CHF. He and his wife spoke so highly of you, your teaching, and the time you were able to find for them to reinforce their empowerment. They spoke of how you got them written information, had them watch videos, "quizzed" them for understanding and then sat to listen to their concerns and questions. I'm gonna venture to say that you probably gave up a break or two in order to accomplish all that because I know what the rest of your team was like and what it would take to be so thoughtful and thorough in their education.

I have rarely seen a family so well equipped for discharge and I publicly need to acknowledge your caring, professionalism, and advocacy. I suspect that we will not see a readmit for this patient because by the time he left he was able to answer all/any of the questions I asked of him as well as recite his home management plan. Really, really well done! When the doctor exited the room to tell me they were ready for discharge, she also acknowledged the exceptional teaching you had set in place and expressed her gratitude. I know she mentions the DAISY Award when patients express/share situations like this with her, but I thought I wouldn't leave this up to chance. You deserve a banquet!