My father-in-law, R, was transferred to Grandview in August. Every physician, tech, respiratory therapist, social worker, and nurse treated him with utmost respect and sympathy. However, one nurse stood out, and that’s why I’d be honored to recognize Rebecca. Rebecca has an exceptional talent to read the room, and would have my FIL smiling even though he was on the ventilator. R was always so calm in her presence, and they would joke with each other. She had the ability to figure out what he was saying despite not being able to talk. Not only did she love on R, but she also loved on the family. You could ask her anything and she’d answer with excitement. You could sit and chat with her like she has been your friend for years. She would send me messages when she was off work to check on him and came by the day he was discharged to cut up one last time and get a bye hug! On Monday, R was discharged and he said “the nurse with purple/blue hair was my favorite—she’s something special”. So despite him being sedated and on the ventilator for a week of his stay, he remembered her kindness and love.

Unfortunately, Wednesday, R returned to GV ER where shortly after he passed away. One thing still rang true, though, Rebecca was sending me messages to remind me she was thinking of and praying for our family. Rebecca is an exceptional RN, and I’m truly honored to have met her. I have no doubt that God sent such a wonderful soul to spend so much time with R before he went to heaven.