The holidays in a hospital can be a very hard time for patients and staff. The month of November itself can be a very hard time for Patty Bishop; however, as a coworker or patient, you would never know because her compassion and empathy outshine any dark feelings she may have. November is the month in which her daughter was born, and also the month she lost her battle with cancer. Black Friday itself was the day she laid her daughter to rest. This Black Friday, Patty's compassion was at its highest. She cared for a patient with a terminal diagnosis of cancer while his wife was down the hall in another room being treated for an unrelated injury.

In the patient's final hours here in the hospital, Patty took the challenge of moving him from his room with all of his lines, tubes, and monitors down to his wife so they could spend their last moments together before he would be transferred to inpatient hospice and she would be transferred to an extended care facility. Knowing the importance of this time together despite the obstacles, Patty took her time and effort to ensure they got the quality time together they deserved. Patty is an incredible person and nurse, through any struggles she has had she has grown and every patient that comes in contact with her can see that. We are blessed to have Patty here with us, caring for these patients at such vulnerable moments. I did not know Patty's daughter, but I can only imagine her to be so proud, too, especially in such a moment like this.

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I was in care for four days, and the whole time, Patty gave me exceptional care. From refreshing my water to actually calling the doctor to check my medication, explaining the meds to me, and offering to rewarm my meals (which were delivered cold), she did it all. She was so caring, knew her stuff, and had compassionate care; she was just too impressive. I can't say enough!