I spent several days in the Trauma ICU due to necrotizing fasciitis and then sepsis after delivering my firstborn son. Even after three full days and nights of labor I had never felt as much pain as I did from my sickness. I had also not felt such fear and sorrow. Often, although my care was technically being managed in a medical way, something was very much missing. Until you showed up. For the first time, I was seen and heard by someone. You understood that what I needed was more than a round of pain medication every 4-6 hours. You knew I needed someone to check on me emotionally. You knew I needed fresh air and sunshine. You even wheeled me outside and not only asked me about my baby but shared stories about your own. You were the only medical personnel who treated me as a human and gave me humanity. I had other nurses who were kind and even chit-chatted when they had a free moment, and I know the medical system doesn't really allow for extra time for empathy and compassion these days. Your ability to see my needs on another level (and essential to my physical recovery) is because you are special. You are doing the job you were meant to do. You shine your light on people and I wanted to let you know that. Everyone around you probably knows it, but I needed to tell you how utterly humbled and grateful I am that I had the privilege of being in your care. You shine so brightly, and I thank you. I think of you often and wish your son a beautiful arrival into this world.