We would like to recognize Meriah Yarbrough. We have witnessed numerous instances where she gave exceptional patient care. However, there is one instance we would like to share in particular that deeply exemplifies the remarkable graciousness and care she gives to her patients.

Our unit had a patient, a young woman in her late 20s with fulminant cirrhosis, dying of multiorgan failure. This was during Tier 3/red visitation policies and her family was unable to be with her. Meriah did not hesitate to take on her care, at the time the sickest patient on our unit. She worked tirelessly for this young woman from a clinical standpoint (vent management, CRRT, transfusing blood products, etc), accepting the challenges with resilience. But beyond that, what we truly want to communicate is her ability to honor the whole patient, not just complete her work well. Meriah went out of her way to keep the family informed and communicate empathetically and compassionately. She asked for and played music the patient liked. She held her hand during withdrawal of care and as she died, insisting that no one should die alone. She was able to provide a great deal of comfort to the family who had watched their daughter/sister struggle for some time.

Meriah inspires those around her - patient care technicians, providers, and all the ICU team - to always keep the respect and dignity of the patient at the forefront. We truly believe she deserves this recognition and much more.