I have been a patient with Atlantic Health with a chronic illness for over 1.5 years. From the moment his shift began, Joao treated me with dignity, respect, and compassion. Having a gynecologic issue, I was concerned that a male nurse would not understand my issue as a woman.  

Not only was he able to give me a well-explained clinical understanding, but he also empathized with me and continued to check on me, asking how I was doing, pain-wise, physically, emotionally, and in any other way I could ask.  

Not related to my own care, but I heard him speaking to another staff member regarding the importance of having IV access until a patient is discharged in case of an unexpected emergency.  He joked with my roommate and me and gave us each his time privately while maintaining our confidentiality, and even helped me through a session of tears.  

With all of that said, after being with different Atlantic Health staff for almost 2 years, this is my first-ever nomination for someone I think should be truly considered.