Sarah Smalls is a truly remarkable individual whose dedication and compassion shone brightly on Friday, in our purple behavioral health section, a place that often demands patience and unwavering kindness. From the very moment she arrived that morning, Sarah dove headfirst into her duties, working to clean up and mend the chaos left from the night before. But what truly moved me was her extraordinary willingness to go beyond the call of duty-she offered every patient a shower, knowing full well how challenging that can be in this environment.

One particular patient’s story deeply touched me. She hadn’t showered in over a month, unable to care for herself or even sit unassisted due to a broken arm. Sarah didn’t hesitate. She called me for help, showing true humility and concern. She quickly gathered fresh scrubs, soap, shampoo, washcloths, towels, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, and a brush-everything needed to restore dignity and comfort. Together, we helped this woman to walk, carefully prepared the shower, and Sarah’s gentle, caring hands washed every inch of her, water splashing everywhere, covering Sarah.

This moment reflected not only essential hygiene care but also the restoration of dignity and the therapeutic value of human touch. The patient’s gratitude was overwhelming: she kept thanking Sarah, overwhelmed by the compassion and genuine kindness she received. Sarah’s actions demonstrated an extraordinary depth of empathy, risking her own comfort to ensure this woman felt valued and cared for. She humbled herself, setting aside any judgment, and approached her task with a warm smile, kind words, and unwavering patience.

Sarah is a true beacon of compassion and a shining role model for all of us. Her unwavering dedication, her ability to see beyond challenges and provide care with heart and humility, and her willingness to always go that extra mile are qualities I deeply admire. I would trust her with my own care without a second thought. Thank you, Sarah, for standing up for what is right and being an unwavering advocate for our patients. Your heart and spirit inspire us all!