My uncle was in the hospital through the ER in July 2021. He was admitted to the third floor. He came in with pulmonary edema and was very ill. I felt blessed as the days continued to be on that floor. He got very good care. However, there was one exceptional nurse who answered multiple questions/concerns as well as went "beyond the call of nursing" to care for my uncle.

Lora Bess did an exceptional job working with my family as well as my uncle. She was my uncle's nurse for one week of his stay and perhaps a few days. It was amazing how she recognized the "total" person and was able to justify with compassion all the concerns presented. She was so engaged with all the physicians on a very timely basis. There always appeared to be a quick response. This responsiveness gave me peace during an unsettling time. There were several occasions when she spent extra time explaining procedures and medications. It was more than just words and just a few minutes. Referral physicians, as well as the hospitalist, were contacted. She has a very caring and humbling way of recognizing tension and is able to professionally de-escalate.

Lora was extremely professional in all contacts with staff and physicians involved with my uncle's care. There were issues with undermining my uncle's care by a family member in the medical field. This situation put me in an awkward position. Lora was able to respond professionally and accurately to the questioning family member with respect to me and particularly my uncle. I was so impressed with her patience and diligence to meet my uncle's needs as well as my own emotional support.

My mother was an RN, I know what a "good" RN is, and that is why it is important to recognize this valuable nurse, Lora Bess at LewisGale Hospital. I have been in and out of LewisGale hospital multiple times with my uncle. Upon leaving the hospital I said I would want to be in the care of Lora Bess. She is a seasoned nurse with compassion, respect, integrity, and professionalism when it is needed most.