My Aunt entered the hospital for the 2nd time recently. I’m not sure if Caleigh was her nurse at that point, but eventually she would become her nurse. And I’m soooo very glad we had the pleasure of encountering Caleigh.

The times I was there with my Aunt, Caleigh expressed such humbleness, grace, caring and genuine compassion with my Aunt. I felt absolutely secure with leaving my Aunt in her care. Any time she administered medication, a test would be performed, etc. Caleigh made sure we understood what was going on.

Caleigh and my Aunt developed a very sweet nurse/patient relationship. Caleigh would whisper to my Aunt, “Who’s my favorite patient?” My Aunt would respond, “Me!” Then Caleigh would ask, “Who’s your favorite nurse?” My Aunt would respond, “You!” They would smile at each other and laugh. It was soooo sweet. Caleigh’s time was approaching to be away from work. She said her good-byes to my Aunt (who had some confusion). When she left the room, my Aunt said, “And where is she going?!” I said, “Well, she’s worked 3 or 4 days straight, she has to have some days off.” My Aunt’s response “She doesn’t need to be off, but ok.” You had to know my Aunt to know her whit.

During my Aunt’s final days, Caleigh was no longer her nurse, but I saw her at the nurse’s station. I told her my Aunt was not doing well and had taken a turn for the worse. She hugged me and gave me some words of comfort. She asked about my Mom and if she could step into the room to see my Aunt, and I told her, “Yes, Absolutely!”

Caleigh entered the room and saw her “favorite patient.” At this time, my Aunt was almost non-verbal and incoherent; however, Caleigh’s compassion for my Aunt and my family was very much appreciated. 

Although I hated having to meet Caleigh under these circumstances, I’m glad she was there to put a smile on my Aunt’s face during her final days. Caleigh, I hope you get to read this note and know that you are making a difference, and our family appreciates all you did for us! THANK YOU!