Brad embodies unwavering compassion, dedication, knowledge, mentorship, and has profoundly impacted both patients, their loved ones, and colleagues. I have yet to meet anyone as committed to OHI’s mission of servant leadership as Brad.

When I first joined hospice as a crisis care nurse, I had the privilege of working closely with Brad. His impeccable reputation among the team initially intimidated me during our first meeting in report. However, any reservations quickly dissipated as he took the time not only to explain his methods for ensuring patient comfort but also to provide insights into why he employed them. Brad shares his extensive knowledge in a way that is accessible not only to novice hospice nurses but also to patients and their families. During my time as a bedside crisis care nurse, Brad guided me through numerous challenging cases. His example and expertise facilitated my growth in nursing practice, allowing me to lead with confidence and compassion, ensuring our patients receive the highest quality of care during their most vulnerable moments. Like many other nurses who have had the privilege of working with him, Brad has greatly impacted my practice. Although I have transitioned to a different role within the crisis care team, Brad continues to offer unwavering support, just as he did when we worked alongside each other in the field.

His dedication extends to the success of everyone on the team, exemplifying his selfless nature and genuine concern for his colleagues' welfare. As a senior member of our team, Brad has significantly contributed to shaping a culture of camaraderie within the crisis care team. Brad shared with me that when he started here 20 years ago, he was determined to be the best hospice nurse, and he has consistently demonstrated that determination through his hard work and accomplishments. His dedication and excellence were formally recognized with the Wright State University Miami Valley College School of Nursing and Health Cameos of Caring Award in 2022. This prestigious accolade underscores Brad's outstanding contributions to nursing and his commitment to patient-centered care. Brad's clinical knowledge and proactive approach have earned him an excellent reputation among physician staff. His thorough understanding of palliative care principles and commitment to researching best practices ensure our team delivers compassionate and effective care to every patient.

I would like to share one story that shows the reach of his impact. Brad was once mistakenly sent to a volunteer vigil at Friends Care Center. I was bedside with him, when the volunteer arrived. She instantly recognized him from caring for her father 5 years prior and was so happy to see him and thank him again. Brad warmly hugged her and asked how she was doing and thanked her for letting him care for her father and for her volunteer service. After we left the facility, he told me he had no idea who she was. I would have never gathered that from the instant connection he made with her.

C joined our team after Brad cared for her grandfather. He inspired her to become a hospice nurse. The legacy of caring he has built has great reach. I can’t even begin to share all of the glowing compliments I have received about Brad from patients and families we have served and from staff across the organization, but I have tried to share some of the many examples that have been shared with me. A recent email: "Hi L, I hope you're well. We met back in May when in-home hospice was caring for my mom, D. One of the critical care nurses we had in mom's final hours was Brad (not sure of his last name), who did just an incredible job of providing care and getting mom comfortable. As we've had a bit more time to reflect as a family, we were wondering if we'd be able to reach out to him in any way (whether via email, address, etc.) to communicate and reiterate our gratitude and potentially share a token of our appreciation. Let me know if something along those lines would be possible -- not looking for much, just want to ensure he knows how meaningful his care to Mom was to her and us. All the best."

I have also included communication from a care manager passing on thanks from the patient's family: "Hello! I'm just passing on the good things the family said about Brad: We loved him! You both were wonderful. We can’t thank you enough. My dad connected with him immediately and he just really made my dad very comfortable. He made sure we had all the right medications and worked with the pharmacy to make sure we got it timely. He did an amazing job."

These are just some of the numerous Ekudos he has received from his teammates: “Thank you, BRAD!!!! You did an excellent job teaching an old dog new tricks this afternoon., my patient was calm and relaxed by the time you worked your magic. I appreciate you so much for not making me feel inadequate and for talking me through your tried and true techniques. You are a true superstar... (if you filled in the all about me survey, I could have got you a coffee) Stay sincerely and graciously you!!”

“Brad, you are an exceptional nurse! Going above and beyond for the patient and their family consistently! The last two cases we were honored to serve, the family expressed multiple times of the loving care you provided to their loved one and how knowledgeable along with your kindness and unique personality made all the difference to them. I wanted to express my admiration and appreciation to you for all you do! It doesn't go unnoticed!”

“Thank you for the superior care that you provided to one of our recent crisis care patients! His wife called in, wanting to say how much she and her family appreciated the "magnificent" care you provided during the time you were there and allowing them to get some much-needed rest before his final hours. She stated that they don't know what they would do without hospice. THANK YOU FOR BEING A TRUE EXAMPLE OF OUR MISSION!”

“Brad, You are the best! Incredibly knowledgeable and willing to share your wealth of knowledge for the betterment of our patients we have the honor to serve! I have a lot of, "what would Brad do" moments, and I have learned so much from you when working night shift through shift exchange. I want to thank you for going the extra mile and caring about your coworkers. I appreciate you and value you! Thank you again for all you are and all you do! You have made a difference to me.”

“Thanks, Brad, for being an awesome Crisis Care team member. I always look forward to seeing you when we follow each other. You give the best report and take such amazing care of our Patients. Just wanted to say thanks for all that you do.”

“Brad, thank you for always being so kind. You are a wonderful nurse and I appreciate you always being so kind. I know patients and families have told me how great you are, and I've seen it firsthand, whether it was with my grandpa before I was a nurse or now after, as I am one.”

In summary, Brad embodies the essence of the Hospice Heart through his exceptional, compassionate care for those he serves. He should also be acknowledged for his knowledge, mentorship, and unwavering support for his colleagues. Brad's impact on countless patients and families is profound, and his commitment to excellence sets a standard for us all to follow. Thank you for considering Brad for this prestigious recognition. He is a true asset to our organization, and his contributions to our patients' lives are immeasurable.