I felt a cold come on, but it was way too aggressive for me. It turned out to be the flu and pneumonia. I could barely get around and was struggling for breath. I made it to Reston Hospital's emergency room early on a Friday morning. I was admitted and eventually made it to the ICU. All weekend were tests and treatments trying to get me hydrated and stabilized. First thing I need to say is that there is a long list of RNs who went out of their way to help me. I was extremely weak and as tired as I was, I couldn't find any way to sleep. It still amazes me that I got that sick in about 3 days. This note is not about my struggle but about a nurse from Reston's ICU. Julie was assigned to be my nurse during the weekend and did an outstanding job - well above expectations. I did clearly have help from several other highest caliber nurses. What stood out, leading me to want to recognize her, was her personal choice to help me. After some progress and improvement in my breathing, I was told I needed to move out of ICU to another room. I was supportive of this process to make way for another person in need. Having been my nurse, she noted that at evening times I still struggled and had trouble moving. Without my knowledge or instruction, she disputed the room change, insisting I needed more help and that I would not get outside of ICU. This led to more time and care while I got to recover more strength. I valued her efforts and intentions. I am a divorced dad fighting cancer... All the time fighting my own battle. Julie fought for me and made my life better. Thank you and never forgotten.