Evan Hyrkas
December 2023
Evan
Hyrkas
,
RN
Inpatient
UP Health System - Portage
Hancock
,
MI
United States
He was so calm, and compassionate, and a gift to our family as we prepared for heartbreak.
Our loved one, our Dad, a 74-year-old Vietnam Veteran, was rushed to the ER for stomach pain after having a heart attack the week prior. He waited to be flown to Green Bay for surgery on his small intestine. The weather delayed him all night and into the morning. The tests showed that our Dad's body had an infection that was spreading quickly to his organs. After consulting with his Doctor and family, our Dad decided not to have surgery as his body was too fragile and most likely he would not make it through. Dad chose to go into a cozy bed and be kept comfortable as he went to Heaven. Evan was the nurse on duty when Dad moved from the ER to his comfy bed. He was very thorough, courteous, and friendly. My family made him smile with jokes and interesting humor. He stopped in to check on Dad often, and if we pushed a button, he was there promptly. Evan asked questions and interacted authentically with our Dad and all in the room. He asked how long he served in the Army in Vietnam, to which our Dad quickly responded 1 year, 9 months, 8 days. Evan made an easy transition to night shift RN, and again when he was back in the morning. Overnight, our Dad got weaker and less responsive. He helped make sure Dad was comfy, clean, and well taken care of. He helped us to understand what was happening as our Dad's body was changing and beginning to shut down. Evan took time to ask about our Mom and we were impressed that he remembered her by name. He made sure that we were comfortable and kept reassuring us to reach out to him anytime. He was so calm, and compassionate, and a gift to our family as we prepared for heartbreak. Once our Dad passed away, he hugged each of us (with permission) and shared how honored he was to be able to take care of our Dad. He really has a genuine and heartfelt compassion for his patients and their families. Truly a blessing to have RNs like Evan on staff, especially in these difficult situations that are ending in heartbreak. Heartfelt thanks to this RN and all who cared for our loved one.