Passion/Compassion: My husband was Tiffany's patients for 2 nights. Under her care, all Tiffany showed was a compassionate and caring attitude towards him and me. She was our support and sympathetic ear. She comforted and consoled us during our difficult ordeal. She hugged me as I cried, and it was so comforting that such a nurse still existed. I even jokingly told her that she needs to be cloned 1000x because she's the kind of nurse that we "baby boomers" need.
Empathy: The night before my husband died, again Tiffany was his nurse. That night he was shorter of breath, restless, and agitated. He could not tolerate the BiPAP. Tiffany patiently reassured him of the need to keep it on. At about midnight, he fell asleep and seemed comfortable, so I asked Tiffany if it was ok with her if I went home, shower, get some clothes, and she agreed. I know my husband could pass at any time, so before I left, I asked her "to please keep my husband alive for me." I told her the worst thing that can ever happen to anybody is to die alone. I don't want my husband to die alone. I wanted to be at his side when his time came. She assured me she would.
Trust and Teamwork: My husband became agitated, restless, and mad when he found out I was gone. He would not keep his BiPAP on and became combative. I came back after a while and Tiffany and I were able to calm him down. Tiffany suggested that they could alternate the BiPAP with a high-flow O2, and he agreed. So, Tiffany and the Respiratory Therapist set it up.
Admirable: He tolerated the high-flow well. Tiffany even offered him sips of water to moisten his mouth in between. A small gesture that a patient and family appreciate and means a lot to them.
Love for patient and Nursing Profession: Tiffany was very friendly and had a caring attitude. Always talking to him, letting him know what she's giving or doing for him. She cared for him with the utmost patience and caring attitude, an attribute of a great professional nurse. He was calling for her by name and we both developed an excellent rapport with her.
Selflessness: Patience, kindness, loving, and a caring attitude were all she showed to my husband and me. I know that the balloon pump and the multiple drugs are what's keeping him alive and was still with me, although I prayed all night for a miracle. That night I asked Tiffany if it was ok for me, my husband, son, and grandson to have some private time together so we can say our goodbyes. This was the most difficult and heart wrenching time of our lives. Tiffany selflessly gave us that precious time and we thank her for that.
On the day of my husband's admission, the doctor talked to us at length about his condition. They told us that there is really nothing that anybody can do in this case. It was so hard and difficult to accept. I told the doctor, "Isn't this ironic. All those patients' lives that I helped save, all during my 40 years of being a nurse, now I can't even save my own husband!" I guess life is unfair. I fully understand what was going on, but it was really hard to let go - especially to someone you've loved and been with for 40 years. I appreciate all the doctors and nurses who patiently gave all the medications to keep him alive so I could be with him for a little bit longer. Thank you to Sentara Heart Hospital and all the excellent staff for the excellent service and care!

Note: This is Tiffany's 2nd DAISY Award!