My dad was life-flighted from Michigan with a brain bleed. By the time my sister and I arrived from Illinois, he was unconscious and connected to many tubes plus a ventilator.
Holly came on the scene with another nurse who was training on this floor. Holly began instructing her trainee but then paused suddenly. She looked toward me and explained politely but straightforwardly that she doesn't sugarcoat. If I am uncomfortable with that I would please need to step out briefly. I thanked Holly for that and asked her to please continue. Holly made routine appearances throughout the day and answered many questions thrown at her between my sisters, my brother, and my mom.
What really sealed our respect and appreciation for Holly was when we realized she shared our love for the Lord. Just talking with Holly during that time when we knew our dad was not going to get better became a bonding experience that can't be explained. Having her share our faith and talking about him going to heaven was so comforting. Not only did Holly instruct her trainee in excellent nursing skills on that floor, she was able to show how very important it is to have an open communication with the family. From beginning to end, Holly saw to the comfort of my dad and helped us as a family say our goodbyes in a gentle, caring way.