Nicole always has the patient's best interest at heart, no matter the situation. But one instance stands out more than most. Recently, SGH had a patient that presented multiple issues with the discharge process to a safe setting. Nicole took a difficult situation with the patient, family, and health system to provide the patient with a new outlook on his life. What makes this story exceptional is what Nicole did to ensure the patient's discharge plan was safe, effective, and possible is an example of the Franciscan Sister's ministry. Nicole took the time to reach multiple avenues of continued access to healthcare, clothing, food, and shelter for the patient and the patient's family. At the time of discharge, Nicole demonstrated her compassion for the patient and the staff she works with by riding with the patient to his home. Nicole understood she could be a resource for the transport team and the patient. She recognized his needs and ensured the discharge plan was in place and safe for all involved.

Another example of her impact: Nicole recently took the time during her day to take pictures of Alverna Apartments for a patient. The patient was concerned if she would like the living environment. Since the patient had no family, Nicole went out of her way to share those pictures with the patient. The word compassion means to "suffer with." Compassionate care calls us to walk with people amid their pain, to be partners with patients rather than experts dictating information to them.

"Compassion is not a relationship between the healer and the wounded. It is a covenant between equals." Fr Greg Boyle. Nicole is the perfect example of Compassionate Care.