My husband was a stem cell transplant patient who had almost reached the one year anniversary when he suddenly had a devastating, rapidly escalating late-onset complication requiring an admission to the hospital and a rapid need for critical care.

When he was transferred from the transplant unit to the ICU, he and I were greeted by Natalie Rivas, who would be his nurse that day. I am a nurse myself with many years of experience but I have never been on this side of a crisis, the spouse of a very sick patient. Natalie recognized immediately that my husband and I were both terrified, and somehow, she was able to calm our fears, help me to remain calm, and helped my husband to understand what was happening minute by minute. He had to be intubated, and Natalie realized how hard it was for me to have to step out. She assured me that she would keep me informed of everything that was happening, and I was comforted knowing he was in her care. She even called me later that night after she got home to give me reassurance that he was comfortable and tolerating the vent. Throughout my husband's two weeks in the ICU, although Natalie was not assigned again to be his nurse, she sought us out, gave us encouragement, and offered to help with anything he needed. Always had a smile and a gentle, caring way.

My husband unfortunately was not able to recover, and he passed peacefully at hospice ten days ago. There isn't much I care to remember about that last hospital stay, but I will never forget the compassionate care that my husband and I received from his wonderful nurse, Natalie, and I will always be grateful that she came into our lives at this time.