She is my Angel. Soft-spoken, caring, and extremely knowledgeable! Colleen Cao comforted and took care of me in such a way that I will never, ever forget her. 

I had a terrible fall, split my head open, and was rushed to the trauma center at New Britain's Hospital. The men in the ambulance were decisive and quick to do the right things. The emergency doctors were also excellent. From the Trauma Center, I was placed on the N2 Floor of the hospital. Often asleep, hooked up to many things, I was content to stay there and heal. 

Colleen was the wonderful night nurse whose ability to care for me and to remedy a few situations is why she is my Angel. One night I was in the middle of a nightmare and couldn't wake up. I was positive that I heard my Beagle puppy crying and trying to find me. I tried to get up and, of course, couldn't. Still dreaming and calling to my puppy, I tried to tear out of the needles, tangled the sheets, but couldn't get free to my little Brady. At the same time, I needed the bathroom. When a 79-year-old woman is in that predicament, getting there is important so as not to be embarrassing. Colleen saved the situation by taking care of me. She quickly sat down, held me, and talked soothingly to me until I woke up. I was still wrapped in her safe arms. 

There aren't enough synonyms for compassionate knowledgeable or gentle that can describe Colleen's caring guardianship. She always gave the best she had. She represented all that is good about a truly great nurse. I feel blessed to have known her, even for that short and memorable time. By this time in my life and having been an Air Force wife, I have moved many, many times. I've been taken care of by many nurses. But, I must say, and even repeat that the very best nurse who has ever taken care of me is my Angel, Colleen Cao. Please honor her. With my love.