I witnessed an act of compassion today that has impacted me considerably. As I was going to do a consult, I was following an older gentleman down the 5 West hall. He seemed frail, hearing impaired and it seemed that his cognitive function had not weathered the test of age and disability well. He was met half way down the hall by Ray Wilkinson. Ray put his arm around this gentleman and explained in a very kind way that his wife had just passed away. Given the gentleman's limitations this was very difficult to communicate, but Ray never stopped rubbing this gentleman's back as he explained to him that his wife had just died. After Ray was comfortable that the husband understood, he escorted him to the doorway. Lauren Unruh met this man at the doorway and hugged him, put her arm around him and took him in the room to be with his wife. The team rapidly found a fellow nurse who could explain the situation in sign language to the rest of the family.

As I reflect on those few moments several things become clear. First, these actions were heartfelt. I could tell by the look on Ray's face that this was difficult but he really had connected to this family on a very personal level. Lauren's response was spontaneous, emotional and genuine. Secondly, Ray handled this situation better than I would have. My memories of those few moments will serve as the new standard that I will judge the compassion of my own patient care. Finally, I am reminded how lucky we are to have these people involved in the care of the patients at LGH.

Submitted by a physician.