My 77-year-old father was diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. It was a difficult time for us as we didn't see it coming. This culminated in him going through the ER, where he coded twice, was intubated, and went to the ICU afterwards. It was a very difficult moment for my family, and having it happen during the holidays was even more painful. The entire clinical team that cared for him was exceptional. What stood out was Paul Sanchez. From the moment he stepped into the room, he introduced himself and updated us on my dad's present clinical condition. He took the time to explain to us any questions my family had about my dad. What made the difference was the personable approach he had when talking with us. The way he interacted with my dad was as if he were talking to his own dad. You cannot teach compassion. It's innate and genuine. Little things, such as asking how my dad likes to be called, what his interests were, and the way he talked to my dad. It was genuine and intentional. He also explained the different medicines he was currently taking and explained how they affected my dad. As a nurse and as a leader, this is what exceptional care means. Being able to connect with families, having a personal approach, and being able to explain clinical information to my family meant the world to us and alleviated some of the pain and emotional rollercoaster we were going through during this difficult period.

While my dad ultimately passed away in the ICU, Paul exemplified what it means to take care of the community through compassion and clinical excellence. It is through his actions that I would like to nominate him for going above and beyond in caring for my father. It was a very difficult moment for us and the circumstances behind my dad's passing, but we are extremely grateful to feel Paul's genuineness in caring for my dad. I'm also grateful that we have someone like him in the community who is passionate about the care they provide and offers a personable approach to the patient's families.