A few weeks ago, Laquandra came down to SDS with one of her patients. Her patient's daughter was having surgery that day and she (the patient) was very worried. Laquandra not only accompanied her patient to Same Day Surgery but she stayed with her and prayed with the family. The nurse stayed about 15 minutes but you could tell that was enough time to ease her mind. Laquandra's patient was smiling by the time she returned to her room. Later that day as I was handing a surgery patient off to Laquandra, I asked how many patients she had that morning and she replied "7". I then reminded her of her morning visit to SDS and she smiled. What she then said touched me deeply. She told me that she "truly cares for her patients and truly shows her concern".

By taking the time out of her busy schedule, Laquandra exhibited what the Methodist values are all about. I'm sure Laquandra had to work fervently to catch up on her work once she returned to her unit, but while she was in my department she showed no sense of urgency, just genuine compassion for a person in her care. Although nurses do what we do out of love for mankind, I would love to see this fine nurse rewarded for her efforts. Nursing professionals such as Laquandra can only assist in keeping our torch in the limelight.