Ms. Linda was in the ICU as a patient for many weeks. Tonya formed a strong connection with both Ms. Linda & her son during this time. The day when Ms. Linda was deemed well enough to transition out of the ICU to another unit was a day of joy. One day, Ms. Linda’s son arrived in the ICU seeking Tonya’s comfort only to find she wasn’t working that day. Despite my offer to assist, the son insisted on waiting and speaking to Tonya. Understanding his need, I assured him that Tonya would return the next day. The following day, before the son could return to the ICU to seek out Tonya, Tonya had already gone to the see the patient. In the meantime, Tonya crossed paths with the physician who conveyed some unsettling information from a pathology report regarding Ms. Linda. As Tonya’s heart was aching for Ms. Linda, Tonya recalled that whenever Ms. Linda’s son would notice the ICU facing a challenging of hectic day, he would rush out to buy cookies for the staff. Also, when Ms. Linda was in the ICU & was unable to eat all, she would ask for was a chocolate chip cookie. Tonya then ran down to the cafeteria, bought 3 chocolate chip cookies, took them back to Ms. Linda’s room and said, “Today we get to return the favor to you. It’s a cookie kinda day.” Hugs and gratitude were exchanged with tears in the eyes of Ms. Linda & her son. Having the privilege of collaborating with Tonya for many years, it is clear that when she has the opportunity to convey to someone that her care extends beyond the physical, embracing their emotional & spiritual well-being, and affirming their significance – that is what truly brings Tonya joy in her choice of nursing as a career.