Anyone previously having a hospital stay for a few days or longer knows it can be hard on the body physically, mentally, and emotionally. Being a veteran and having served my country with pride, I had high expectations for Barnes Jewish Hospital; I was not disappointed.

My story begins with a diagnosis of a rare disorder called Zonker's Diverticulitis. This is an out-pouching that occurs at the Junction of the lower part of the throat and the upper portion of the esophagus, which makes it difficult to swallow foods and liquids. During my 6-day stay, the experience topped the charts. From admission to discharge, the overall staff was exemplary!

After my initial surgery, I, unfortunately, had complications and received additional repairs, which extended my stay. At this portion of my story, you are probably thinking, where does my nominee come into play? Here we go:

The evening after my first surgery, the pain was severe, and sedative medications were rendered. The pain subsided, but Whitney Myers did not! At least in my eyes. Every time I awoke, which seemed like every 10 minutes, she was standing over me asking, "Are you okay? Can I get you anything? Are you warm enough?" After 4 or 5 times of this interaction, I thought to myself, Are you my wife? Am I at home? No nurse gives this level of care! Being surprised by this was an understatement because it never stopped during Whitney's shifts. 6 days! I never wanted for anything. It was like she anticipated my every thought.

In my military career, attention to detail was of the highest standards. Whitney surpassed these standards. Even on days of being short-staffed and long hours, she made sure I was comfortable as she ran between patients. One of the few blessings of being ill was seeing Whitney and knowing this nurse would take care of me.

On one of her many visits, a particular "moment of attention to detail" arose. Yet, being small but effective, I will never forget. Don't get me wrong, the entire staff was excellent, but this type of care is what makes a nurse an angel!

I had been receiving Tylenol on a daily basis, twice a day after the repairs of my surgery. This pain reliever came in two small containers similar to coffee pods where the lids had to be peeled open. Another nurse had given me this medication to drink, one full container and half of another. After completion, I would throw these in the trash, which was beside my bed, and it was easy peasy. That next evening, Whitney had started her shift and brought in 2 Tylenol containers. My expectations were to drink one and half of the other, but then, as I watched her place the containers on the table, peel back the lids, and begin to pour each of the liquids into a measured cup, I thought, this is different. She made it easy: one container, one drink, and, to top it off, precise measurement. And to put the icing on the cake, she would not let me throw the cup away, the trash being right beside my bed. Like I said earlier, small but very effective attention to detail.

I cannot imagine the level of stress nurses have during their shifts, but one thing is for sure: I never saw Whitney without a warm smile and an excellent attitude! Words cannot express my gratefulness, but my heart can.

In closing of this letter, these are just a few experiences of the dedication, loyalty, kindness, exceptional care, and empathy that make nurses like Whitney Myers a true angel.