I was a patient at UPMC Hamot and I was suffering from severe GI bleeding related to severe diverticular disease. I have long been suffering from this, and for some reason, the root cause of the bleeding can not be located. So I am treated for loss of blood and monitored until it is safe to go home. This time, however, I lost a considerable amount of blood, and my frequent trips to the bathroom started to look like there was no end in sight. As my lab indicators continued to go down I was becoming severely depressed and one particular day I reached a point of an emotional breakdown, I was alone at the time and felt scared. As one gets older, one starts to be more aware of one’s mortality and just how much your body can take. I was confused and frightened. As I sat on the edge of the bed, I lost it and began to cry. But then I felt a hand on my shoulder and a soft voice with the words telling me I could get through this; it’s going to be ok. This hand and voice came from a young nurse named Holly Miller. She was one of the nurses throughout my stay and I remember when I first made eye contact, I could feel her kind and calming spirit, and I believe I even told her she was special. in life, we all have a calling that we often don’t realize until it is too late, but in Holly’s case, I dare say she found hers!

Not many people outside of my family have left a mark on my heart and touched my soul as she did, strange as it may seem to be in the short time I was in contact with her, but her spirit is strong and that coupled with her caring nature, and her professionalism in my experience set her apart and make her well deserving of this award. In closing, I want to add that all of the care I received was great, and all of the staff have my thanks. But Miss Holly Miller, you are special and I will not forget you. You are a credit to your profession and may God bless you in your life and your career.