This past September, at the age of 85, my father was diagnosed with heart failure, a life ending illness.  His request was to spend the time he had left on this earth at home with us.  He wanted to pass into the afterlife with dignity and grace, and with the help of the many professional and caring employees at THAH, we made this happen.

Shelly Ralston, my father’s home care nurse, would be our choice to receive this Award. 

We think she brings to your company not only a deep understanding of medicine and a professional attitude but a compassion for her work that is a rare commodity in today’s society.

Pop just adored her. Every day, he would ask, “Is Shelly coming to visit today?” His whole face would light up the minute she walked into the room. He so looked forward to her visits. She spoke to Pop with true compassion and was able to alleviate his anxiety with just a touch of her hand or a smile. Her sense of humor, combined with her no-nonsense approach to professionalism, put Pop at ease right away, and he was able to make dignified choices about his own care, which she was always on top of. From the medicine and supplies to advising us about what we could expect moving forward as his condition deteriorated, she helped to prepare us for the inevitable with true empathy and care.

When my father stopped breathing, my first thoughts were not to call your office but to call Shelly because she had become, in those few short months, an integral and important part of our lives.  It was truly bittersweet saying so long to Shelly, but we are blessed to have her as Pop’s nurse. She is a true professional in every sense of the word. THAH can be proud of this wonderful woman.