I believe Virginija epitomizes what all nurses need to strive for in their profession. I had to spend 4 days in ICU which was extremely challenging for me physically, mentally, and emotionally. However, I made it through due to Virginija’s compassion, heartfelt empathy, and understanding of how I was feeling. She paid attention to my needs and often met my needs before I had to ask her. When she was with me, we would talk about her experiences during Covid in ICU and her work with Military Members at another facility. She never provided any names or personal information to me. She shared how she had lost several fellow nurses who worked with her in ICU, speaking softly with tears in her eyes. Also about “Hardcore Afghan Vets” she had taken care of who would often get tears in their eyes which pained her deeply. I think by sharing these stories with me, it helped me get through the days, brought me “out of myself” and helped form a heartfelt connection between us. I truly don’t think I would have made it through the 4 days, mentally and emotionally without her AWESOME SUPPORT, LOVE, AND COMPASSION from one human being to another. Thank you so much Virginija. I will never forget you.