My father was admitted to your hospital and remained in your facility until he passed away a month later. While in your facility we had exceptional care from his entire Care Team. There was, however, one nurse in particular that stuck out to me above all the rest. I am writing to nominate a wonderfully compassionate, thoughtful, and caring nurse named Rachel from 4th floor South Tower at UHS.

While visiting my dad for days on end, I witnessed Rachel care for my father through the end of his life. These times were some of the hardest, most pain-filled days of his/our lives. Rachel helped get us through. Her calm communication style, empathy, and personal attention to my dad and family's well-being were wonderful. It was very evident that Rachel was not only experienced in her profession but had all the other intangible characteristics of an outstanding health care provider. Her attention to detail was impeccable, and she was always problem-solving and providing solutions to any problems that arose during my dad’s care. One day a specialist came into my dad’s hospital room and was preparing to do a minor procedure to remove fluid from his lungs. As they were getting things ready, I chuckled as I heard him admit that Rachel was his ‘go-to’ person on the floor. He even joked that ‘she was his boss’... my impressions were becoming more and more solidified that Rachel must be an incredible nurse!

During one of our chats, while she was giving my dad his IV medication and tube feeding, I asked her how long she has been a nurse. She responded that this is her 6th year, and that “nursing is in her blood.” She explained that she comes from a long line of nurses in her family. She said she believes she was born to make a difference in people's lives, and that she always knew she wanted to become a nurse. I complimented her and assured her that she was making a difference to us. That was the first of many conversations we had while I was visiting my father. Each and every interaction became more and more evident that Rachel is a very special person. At times towards the end of my dad's life, I was struggling to make sense of all that was happening. We were nearing the end, and I was upset and crying. She always just seemed to know the right thing to say to make me feel a little better. 

She exudes all the qualities of an "Extraordinary Nurse," and I hope she can be recognized for her hard work and the extra special way she has with her patients and families. Thanks to her, my entire family came away from our experience at UHS knowing that my father received the best care possible until the very end.