My mother was a patient at Tallahassee Memorial in the cardiology ICU. I am still thick with grief, but I want to send a big thank you and acknowledge an amazing nurse, Brittany Duke. During that incredibly difficult time, Brittany was the most compassionate, honest, and humanizing individual.

While Brittany only had my mama for one night, she was extremely gentle and prompt when attending to mama. She also referred to my mama as mama, which made me feel less alone and love for both my mama and myself. During the final hours of my mother’s life, there was a sick patient that required most of the staff’s attention. While frantic, I ran into the hallway because my mother’s breathing had become quite aggressive. I didn’t know any other nurses' names in the hall then, but I could locate Brittany, and she did not hesitate to come and help my mama. At that moment, I knew mama and I could depend on her.

Words are not enough to express both my mama and my gratitude.