Jamie is a relatively new RN. She’s been on her own here for about 4 months. I was very struck by her compassion the other day when she took care of a patient named B. He’s had a rough journey with his health and had opted to go on comfort care during this particular hospitalization. B had no “blood” family, and only one friend named D who was dear to him. We waited for D to arrive before fully removing oxygen support. She said her goodbyes but didn’t feel strong enough to stay with him until he passed. Jamie reassured her that he wouldn’t be alone and stayed by his side in his final moments, playing John Denver’s “Leaving on a jet plane” as he took his final breaths. He had told her how much he loved John Denver in a prior conversation. These moments may seem small and simple when compared to the high-level skills required to work in a critical care department. But often it’s in these quiet, unseen moments where a person reveals their character. Staying with a person as they die in their final moments is emotionally challenging. It is one of the few things that still really tugs at my heartstrings in the ICU. And to be the only person there for another human at the end of their lives is that much more meaningful. I’m very proud to work alongside Jamie. I think she has already revealed her heart for nursing by how she chose to be present for her patient in a very scary moment, and I think as long as she remembers these simple, yet profound moments, she will continue to grow into an incredible nurse.