I was admitted to Heather's unit with a brain bleed. This was the scariest and challenging moment of my life, medically speaking. I am a nurse, and sometimes knowledge can increase anxiety. During my stay, Heather exhibited every quality that makes nurses the most trusted professionals in our society. She was extremely knowledgeable and competent in her delivery of care. This was greatly appreciated, but this is not what makes a nurse exceptional. What makes a nurse exceptional is providing care that is memorable and changes the direction of a patient's life. I met Heather on the day when I fully realized the ramifications of my brain injury. I was very distraught and emotional, and Heather provided the comfort of a mother, the listening ear of a dear friend, and the quiet calm of a professional nurse. She also provided simple comfort measures that made all the difference that day, like quietly bringing in extra tissues and a hot cup of tea. She provided dignity for me during very undignified moments of my hospitalization. Heather included my husband in my care, which helped prepare him for my care at home. Over the coming days, Heather's calming demeanor and encouraging words instilled confidence in me that I would recover. I am happy to say that Heather’s exceptional nursing care set me on the path to successful recovery!