My dad has been home a week now and has made great progress. We are cautiously optimistic and trying to remain grounded and appreciate every day that we have with him. I wanted to reach out to you specifically to express my gratitude. Although dad had many great nurses, you stood out, partly because you drew him at his toughest times, but also because of your amazing heart.
You were always so caring with my dad and gentle and respectful when you needed to do something with him. Yes, I noticed that you asked permission before checking his vitals or scanning his wristband. I know others do too, but for many, it seemed a formality, with you it seemed sincere. At one point, Dad was refusing to eat and expressing his wish to travel in God's hands. My sister and I respect his wishes but did not want him to make that decision in the midst of a cold virus. I talked to you in the hallway about encouraging him to drink the Ensure that the doctor had ordered, and you were so patient and caring with me in expressing respect for his wishes but understanding our concerns. Ultimately, you were able to get him to drink some and he began to turn the corner.
The next day we found your touching card and note. You made me cry. You couldn't know that I was not only losing my dad but had just made the decision to resign as a professor - my dream job - and leave my friends and daughters in NYC to start a new life in St. Louis to help my parents. I was already dealing with loss and loneliness when I had to face losing my dad; your note was the perfect medicine for me.
You cared for my dad, and although we were still facing a very dire prognosis, your positive, cheerful attitude was encouraging. As a professor, I would occasionally receive a note from a student saying how much that I impacted them. I kept them all to look at when my job was particularity frustrating. I hope my letter can be similarly encouraging to you.