I underwent surgery and began my recovery on the 9th floor of SSM Health. Michelle, who I nicknamed, "The Hammer" had her way of engaging me in the act of my own recovery through her sense of humor and caring ways. Though sympathetic to my needs, she pressed me to sit-up, and get up and move; motivating me to act in breathing exercises and walking, to facilitate and aid my healing. She had the tenacity and sense of humor that went well beyond a challenge; she engaged me to act in my own self-interest to push past the pain and move. Michelle reminded me just a hint of a drill sergeant, but with a compassionate side - but only when it needed to show. I enjoyed bantering back and forth in humorous quips as she aided me in walking towards my recovery and healing.