Words cannot express completely how much Kelly means to me and how her simplest effortless ways have changed my life forever. I'm honored that I have this opportunity to share with you what an outstanding and unconditional nurse Kelly is and strives to be. Kelly is an exceptional and Extraordinary Nurse.

Kelly is amazingly caring, understanding, and a joy to be around her. She takes great pride in her duties while taking care of her patients. I have witnessed this firsthand. For example, there was an instance that she'd come into my room to give me my much-needed meds. While she was doing this, she asked me how I was doing. She could tell that I was having a hard time. I didn't need to say much for her to see it in my eyes that I was scared. I didn't understand why I was there and just wanted to be home with my loved ones. Several minutes went by while she explained things and talked to me a calmness came over me. She had eased my worried mind. She slowly walked to the side of my bed and sat down, close enough to gently hold my hand. She reassured me that it was going to be ok and that I would be going home soon to be with my family and especially my wife. As we exchanged stories and experiences that we had gone through in our lives, both of us felt and understood the emotional scars, tears, and heartache we expressed in our stories. The feeling of concern she expressed towards me was so genuine and comforting.

I hope she truly knows how much I appreciate her for not only how she took care of my medical needs but for just noticing that I needed a friend. Someone to talk with, to listen to, and, for all the times she reached out even if it was just a simple hello or good night. The comfort of knowing she cares for her patients, especially for myself. I have never met someone with such compassion for others, her ability to see the goodness in me, to help me see the real meaning of love and the true meaning of life. I feel that everything happens for a reason. There be no mistakes. God put us in that room and made it possible to meet. So we could help each other get through these troubling times. To me, she is my guardian angel sent from above. She is one person I will never forget and hold dear to my heart.

Through her kindness, I was willing to work harder to gain the strength to walk out of the hospital and return home to my wife and family. I don't know if I will ever get to see Kelly again or ever repay her for the impact she made in my life. But I want to thank her again for not only being my nurse but most of all being a Friend. May God bless you and protect you. Kelly, your demonstration of Relationship Based Care is wonderful. You were truly a guide and healer.