My sister and I traveled from out of town for a challenging surgery. Her illness has been a rollercoaster that began when she was 12 and has continued in her early 40s. She's been seen by some of the nation's best teaching hospitals but by far the staff at UCM has been the most exceptional. Melissa was our nurse on the first two days following her surgery and she was such a comfort during these difficult days. Melissa couldn't have known that this procedure was very emotional for my sister because our mother passed away 28 years ago from a similar condition. Melissa didn't see my sister as just a patient but rather saw her as a young woman who was in pain and dealing with a new device and all that it entails. When Melissa discovered that my sister lives alone with her two dogs, she began to share stories about the dogs she fosters. As she checked vitals and shared her medical knowledge, she talked about the dogs and put my sister completely at ease. Even though the floor seemed very busy, she listened with empathy as my sister explained her pain and included my sister in decisions she was making related to her care making my sister feel like she was Melissa's only patient. Melissa gently offered suggestions and encouraged her to begin moving as part of her recovery. On her final shift, Melissa made it a point to wish her luck and say goodbye. All of the kindness given by Melissa made a difference in my sister having a positive mindset while in the hospital. Melissa certainly went above and beyond to be the bright spot in a couple of very difficult days. We hope she knows how much she is appreciated.