I’m told I can make a wall talk and other colorful funny sayings. But today is different. Today, I sit in my office racking my brain to think of something to say that even holds a candle to what Latoya did yesterday and today. I am in awe of her and so grateful for the reminder of what it means to be a true caregiver and a beautiful person, inside and out.

Yesterday, we had a code, but this code felt gritty. The man was young, too young. He was alone, not married, and his next of kin was his disabled mother, with whom he was the primary caregiver. We called the mother to update her on his status change, and she was distraught. The mother doesn’t drive, uses a cane, and can only walk short distances. As I’m updating the physicians in the room about the mother’s inability to make it to the hospital, I see Latoya take out her phone. Confused about what is happening, I soon realize she is starting her car. She then proceeded to drive to the mother’s home and pick her up so she could be with her son. The mother was able to watch a few minutes of the heroic efforts to save her son. The mother then let us know that it was ok to stop. Because of Latoya’s actions, the mother was able to hold her son’s hand and say goodbye.

Latoya’s compassion didn’t stop there. She went back to the mother’s house the next day to bring her flowers and check on her. Latoya knew the mother’s daughter hadn’t arrived from out of state yet, and she wanted to make sure the mother was ok and to say how sorry she was for her loss.

They say no beauty shines brighter than that of a good heart. Latoya, you are one of the most beautiful people I have ever met.

Note: This is Latoya's 2nd DAISY Award!