I wish to recognize Bob Nelson for the compassionate, respectful and dignified care he provides to the patients he cares for. His most recent care of a long-term patient on our unit, whose complicated and challenging hospitalization has led to a palliative route, exemplifies these characteristics. As he does with all his patients and families, Bob connects on a personal level. With this patient specifically, Bob was able to participate in the palliative care conference by highlighting the patients and wife's wishes and concerns while providing emotional support. This was a very difficult conversation for both the patient and his wife. Bob made sure their anxiety and fears were addressed. He worked with the surgeon and palliative care physician to develop a care plan that ensured the patient's comfort.

Bob's compassion, caring and presence in this patient's experience has been praised by his peers and colleagues.