Lexi Ranek, BSN, RN

There are not enough words to describe the meaningful difference Lexi made in our lives and our mother’s life. Mom spent her last 12 days of life in your hospital. The first week was on the 3rd floor and the second on the 5th floor. For several days, Lexi was her nurse. Her nurses were wonderful, but as it became obvious that Mom was going to pass, Lexi showed up.

Mom was not technically her patient, but she stopped in multiple times to check on her and on us. She ordered us food and found a box of real tissues and water bottles. At the end of her shift, I saw her in the hall and asked a few questions. She came in, sat with us, explained what was happening, and talked us through the decisions we could make. She shared her own story and told us that she "will never let a dying patient suffer," if she can help it. She spoke so positively about our nurse and reassured us that we were in good hands, but she stayed.

She stayed after her shift was over, when her own kids were probably waiting for her at home. She simply sat with us and let us cry. She held Mom’s hand and gently advised us on the choices she would make. She told us that it was her great honor to care for Mom and for us as Mom breathed her last breath.

We may never see Lexi again, but we will always remember her beautiful, compassionate, and knowledgeable face as we think back on the day our mother died. Her compassion and willingness to go above and beyond for both Mom and our family made a supremely meaningful difference on one of the most difficult days of our lives.