My father was rushed to Mercy Hospital of Folsom for severe abdominal pain. After many tests, he had emergency surgery to rectify a twisted colon, along with a blockage.

Thankfully, the surgery was a success, performed by the unquestionably brilliant surgeon and his team. For a moment we were filled with watchful hope.

It is with heartbreak, I write, that my dad would not be able to gain his strength and recover from the procedure, and he did not survive.

After a week of giving it the best fight he could, he passed away at the hospital.

Our experience was one of Excellence, each day we were greeted by caring, knowledgeable staff.

I'm writing to express my gratitude for the exceptional medical team in the ICU, with special attention to Todd Horowitz.

All the nurses deserve a nod for their attention to detail, kindness and care but without a doubt, Todd Horowitz went above and beyond, not only to care for my father but to care for me and my dad's sons, standing by his side.

Todd tenderly checked on my dad throughout the day, his astute and accurate attention to detail was clear, addressing immediately what my dad needed at any given moment.

This allowed us to take a breath, knowing nothing would be missed. He treated my dad with the utmost respect.

Todd Horowitz's approach was one of sensitivity, knowledge, kindness and humor, when relating to us. I couldn't have asked for more, as these are character traits of my dad and myself!

My dad and I are straight shooters, we like to know the reality of a situation, without all the fluff. We take on life's struggle with humor and faith and walk the walk that is in front of us.

It was clear to me that Todd understood this.

He walked me through what to expect when it was time to remove life support for my dad in detail, he patiently answered my many questions and assured me he would be by our side the entire time.

The next morning, at 3 am., I felt safe and ready to do the unthinkable, remove my dad's life support and we headed to the hospital.

Both the physician and RN Todd Horowitz made themselves available, during undoubtedly the hardest time of my life. They were there at every turn, to offer support, guidance and compassion.

We were not rushed through the process but allowed the time needed to send my dad off with prayer and love.

I still haven't truly begun to feel like I am living a life without my dad, maybe because he is such a part of me. I have been beside him for a lifetime of adventures and of late, health issues. I dreaded the day I would ultimately have to say goodby as I love my dad more than anything.

It was nothing like I expected.

Todd Horowitz made the experience manageable, I was encouraged to honor my dad in whatever way I needed.

I will forever look at his time under the care of the physicians and Todd Horowitz as a gift, one that is etched in my heart for a lifetime.

It is my hope that you share this story with those who can acknowledge and commend Todd Horowitz for his outstanding work, compassion and guidance.