I have great respect for anyone that knows what they want to do and pursues it. I have even more respect for those that change careers - James is a second career nurse. It’s challenging early in life, but even harder when you have a family and he plans to pursue a bachelor degree. It’s mentally, physically, and financially taxing. James often stops by after his shift to visit and not only us but with others as well. He frequently gives pep talks to J which I thought were exclusive to J given his situation, but I’ve heard him many times giving similar talks to others as I’ve walk down the hall. If there are issues with care in the department or other departments, he addresses appropriately.

On Monday this week he came to work and was not feeling well ….don’t worry he wore mask in patient’s room….. and decided he couldn’t make the day. He was finishing up paperwork and John’s nurse for the day is pregnant and colostomy bag needed emptying so James, in his mask, came to empty as he knew it would make her ill. After 200 days in the hospital, I believe all direct patient care staff are angels, but I have to say that rehab staff probably have 2 sets of wings as they have to not only care for patients but provide constant encouragement that they will get better and get out of the hospital. Care has been good, but James is an exemplary of a bright blooming DAISY.”