My mother was being treated at NYU Langone for the previous eight months for stage four small cell lung cancer. Although mom and all of us sadly knew she was terminal, she took a sudden and rapid turn for the worse and was admitted in July to the "Hoag 1" ward at NYU Langone.

During my mom's week on the ward, her condition continually declined and the little mobility and independence she had quickly evaporated and she became a rather full time patient for the kind and caring staff of the ward. My mother and family received a level of care that was outstanding, especially from the nursing staff. She was always cared for quickly, was shown endless compassion, and most importantly, she felt and was listened to.

I would be remiss and not completely honest if I didn't tell you that my catalyst for this email was the absolutely incredible care my mom received from one nurse in particular...Krista Laspragata. Krista not only took care of my mom physically but also took care of the whole family emotionally with her compassionate approach, her wonderful sense of humor, and her very obvious dedication to the care of our mother. No request was too small, and no request was ever met with anything but enthusiasm and speed. No request was ever made to make her feel like she was a burden. I know I speak on behalf of my family when I say that Krista became just like family to us in those eight days. When my "shift" was up and it was time for me to go home for some rest, I left just a little easier because I knew my mom was in Krista's care as well as the care of some other very special staff at NYULH.

I'd like to close by acknowledging that I must have certainly but unintentionally left off many names of many other staff members who showed my mom a level of care and compassion in her final days that was just incredible. The staff on "Hoag 1" will forever be remembered by us as the very best of what your profession has to offer, not only in terms of medical care but in terms of dedication, empathy, and compassion.