I was scheduled for a laparoscopic gallbladder surgery, and I was taken back to get prepared. I was so nervous and worried about what was about to happen. The tears just started up, and Cindy was the most compassionate and understanding person that could have been in that room. She explained everything that was about to happen, holding my hand and comforting me in a way that others probably would not have been able to do. She was so sincere and so honest, and I felt like she really heard me and understood my fears. By the time I went into surgery, I felt like I had a new friend. She is so warm and caring but in a really down-to-earth way. She helped me face my fears and find my strength, and I will be forever grateful for having met her and having her be there to help me on that day. I am sure my nomination is not the first and won't be the last for her. Some people are just really meant to be a nurse, and I feel that Cindy is definitely one of them.