Mary Pawar is the truest definition of a nurse. She is compassionate, caring, patient and kind. Our father passed away in the ICU. We truly believe if it had not been for Mary we may not have gotten through. Mary had been his nurse for only a few days, but in that time, she not only gained his trust but managed to keep him comfortable and feel safe. Our parents were together for 67 years; not only did Mary give comfort to our dad but our mom as well. She walked her through each step and assured her all the way.

Additionally, I was returning from vacation in the Washington, D.C. area when I got the call that my Dad took a turn for the worse. After he passed, Mary kept him in his room until I arrived to allow me a few last moments with him. I will never forget how she cared for the whole family.

Saving the lives of total strangers every day is remarkable in of itself, but when our dad passed it was evident that Mary felt it too. We feel Mary Pawar should be honored for the dignity, respect and compassion she shows her patients every day. We thank her from the bottom of our hearts.