I am sure there are other stories out there about Mike's expertise and care of patients, but two stand in my mind as a reminder that attention and care for our patients is what we are all about. Mike was working in the ED and he happened to pass a room where a patient was seated on the gurney, pale and not looking comfortable, he asked what was wrong and the man told him he did not feel good, he was not really complaining a lot or pointing at anything in particular, but Mike said he just had a gut feeling, the patient was really sick, so he had him lie down and started taking care of him, did an EKG and put an IV on him. The patient continued to look ill and became very diaphoretic and began having chest pain. His tests showed he was having an leaking aneurysm, he was rushed to the community hospital with Doctors on board the ambulance, Mike had directed staff to call the OR and all personnel needed for this patient to get the care he needed. He gave this man a chance to live.

On compassion and care I wish to mention that Mike found out that a large number of Christmas cards which had been sent to soldiers were going to be shredded without even being opened! He took them home, read each and every one of them and then composed a letter which he mailed to each sender thanking them for their cards and wishes of wellbeing for the soldiers. He also posted a few of the ones sent by small children in the break room for everyone to see.

Mike embodies what nursing is truly about; he cares not only for his patients but his co-workers and is a great nurse to work with!