My mother was diagnosed with stage lV pancreatic cancer in early June. With several rounds of chemotherapy and an unfortunate infection, she landed a nearly 2-week stay in the hospital. As a recently spunky, spry, and very healthy woman, this was a tough adjustment for the whole family. Then we met our hero, Matt. As a Nurse myself, I could tell immediately he had a genuinely caring heart. He cared for my mother with such empathy and grace, it was amazing to see the bond and trust she formed with him. He was always honest with her and our family, respected her treatment decisions, and advocated for my mother.

Matt went out of his way several times to reach out to providers on my mother's behalf. He handled her quirks and requests with patience and understanding. He even went to the cafeteria to get my mother scrambled eggs. It may sound like a small thing, but being limited with what she can eat, meant the world to her. He made sure to always bring cheer and make her laugh. Matt is not only an incredible Nurse, but an amazing human and we will never forget the care he showed my mother and our family. He has made a true and heartfelt impression on a dying woman’s life, and that will always speak volumes to the true, skilled, and compassionate care I know Matt shows all of his patients.