... Maria provided her patient with the most sensitive palliative care. She supported her with a listening ear and gentle words. She checked on her very frequently, assuring her needs and wishes were met and that she remained comfortable. The hot fudge sundae from MacDonald's that Maria arranged for was greatly appreciated - it brought joy to an 84 year old woman who had had nothing to eat by mouth for the previous three years - not just in the pleasure of tasting it, but also as a demonstration of the degree of compassion and caring that was behind the act of kindness. Maria provided professional nursing services, explaining to the patient about her medications and other interventions. Maria was performing far above and beyond simply "doing her job." She made my mom feel joy.