It was Christmas Eve and I was not doing well after my surgery. That is when Kayla came on duty. My heart rate was sky high for hours, setting off alarms constantly. I had the shakes, as a fever was setting in due to complications, which unknown to us at the time, would require another surgical procedure on Christmas Day. Kayla was so calm and patient, checking on me constantly, putting cold washcloths on my forehead, and hooking up additional monitors so that she could tell what my heart rate was doing no matter where she was on the floor. I felt like Kayla demonstrated genuine caring, almost as if I was a member of her own family. It gave me the confidence that I was in good hands and a boost of faith that I could get beyond this. It was almost as if a Christmas angel had been sent, right at my most difficult time. As the night progressed and I began to show some signs of improvement, the doctor said it was necessary to take walks. Kayla was right there by my side, making sure I didn't stumble. Kayla was born to be a nurse, and she excels at it naturally. She demonstrated a passion and kindness, above the call of duty, that I believe aided in my healing process. Even after her shift was over on Christmas morning, she pitched in for her colleagues by measuring and recording my vitals one last time. I was not surprised.