My husband was admitted to the ER on Monday. Many of the doctors and nurses were helpful and supportive to not only my husband T but to my family and me.

We were not sure which direction to take because my husband’s health was critical, and we were DNR. All of the doctors and nurses were doing their jobs and telling us to wait and see. Meanwhile, a breathing tube was inserted to help my husband breathe. We knew he did not want this, and his organs were severely compromised from type 1 diabetes.

On Friday, with my husband now critical and in intensive care, one amazing nurse, Renee, was caring for my husband. She, my sons, and I had “the talk” about DNR. We deeply needed to hear honest answers. After a lot of discussion, tons of tears, and gut-wrenching options, we decided to put my husband at peace and take out his breathing tube. Renee told us that we could stay as long as we wanted, she was not going to leave as long as we were there (her shift for that dreadful day was over).

It was the compassion, honesty, professionalism, and knowledge of Renee that guided us to the right decision. My sons, our family members, and I know Renee was a supportive gift from above that led us to the right path. Renee hugged each and every one of us as we said our goodbyes to T. Renee made us feel supported, loved, and tranquil as we left United Hospital.