I’m in the hospital with a progressive inability to walk and will have surgery tomorrow to treat the cervical stenosis that is causing my problems. Maggie was at bedside when the neurosurgeon explained the procedure, risks, chances of success, and the consent process. I was frightened and a bit overwhelmed with all that’s happening. After the surgeon left, Maggie expressed her hope that it will all go well and, most importantly she said, “I’m here if you want to talk.” She clearly grasped the situation and how I was feeling and expressed deep compassion and caring, the epitome of good nursing to me. She saw me as an individual who not only benefits from her skills as a nurse (her physical assessment was excellent) to my physical needs but, importantly she attended to my emotional needs as well.