Deborah Thames is an experienced nurse that requires many words to describe her. She is a team player, with a positive attitude that demonstrates confidence with her co-workers as well as patients and their families. Her reputation as an excellent skilled clinician, as well as teacher, puts her in high demand as a preceptor for new staff members. She is skilled compassionate nurse who goes the extra distance when taking care of her patients. An example of this was demonstrated when she cared for a recent long term patient that required a heart transplant. Due to many complications, the patient became very depressed. Deborah addressed her emotional needs by purchasing makeup and assisting the patient in applying it. The patient started to take an interest in her care. Her recovery process improved as her mental outlook improved. Observing the patient was likened to watching a flower bloom. Another instance of compassion involved one of our retired surgeons. He became ill and had to leave abruptly to undergo treatment for his condition. She collected photos from many staff members and assembled the photos into a collage. She visited him as a patient on 6B and presented the gift. He was overcome with appreciation for her kind deed. It allowed him a moment of reprieve to reflect over happier times spent at the hospital. In addition to her exemplary care at the bedside, she is an overachiever in facilitating change. She supports administration in new endeavors. She serves on the CPOE committee. She imitated and produces the quarterly CVICU newsletter "Newsbeat". She serves as the chairman of the R&R committee. She coordinates unit social functions. She came up with the idea of a unit concession stand. This provides snacks for the staff and some of the funds generated were donated to the heart walk. She is an outstanding example of a nurse that is a skilled and compassionate clinician.