I was admitted for chronic anemia, with a HGB of 6.1 and needing three units of blood. During the type and cross procedure I was found to have antibodies which delayed the transfusion. I was already short of breath, feeling very weak and scared and thinking, "how long will it take before I become severely ill or even die?" And that's when I had my first encounter with my nurse who would be my perfect angel for the next ten days.

Bethany never minimized my fears; she was there with me reassuring me that she and the rest of the staff were there for me, and that the blood bank was working diligently on finding a match. She was in and out of my room checking on me and a little after noon she walked in with a big smile and told me that the blood was on its way.

Later that afternoon after an Endoscopy was performed, I received the news that I had a stomach tumor. That's when I realized why this young lady was assigned to me: I needed HER- a compassionate, empathetic, dedicated and truly caring and honest professional.

The days to follow were emotionally and physically difficult both for me and my loved ones. Bethany was there for them as well.

Bethany deserves to be embraced.