My father was on the stroke floor, not because of a stroke, but because it was an available location when he was admitted and this hospital stay was extended for 10 days. Nurse James Hayes attended to my father during the latter days of his stay. Nurse James Hayes would enter my father's room referring to him as "Mr. H" and asking the basic questions with a kind and peace-filled voice. He graciously listened to my father as he shared his daily concerns and needs. My father required many procedures during this stay and James provided the needed explanations before each procedure so that it was easy for my father to understand. When my father would return to his room, James would make sure he was comfortable and fulfilled his needs (e.g., water, food, and comfort in his bed). My father could still get out of bed to go to the bathroom and James provided the dignity needed to assist him and ensure that he was safe.

Because most of the patients on the stroke floor require more attention than my father, James always came by his room to provide the assurance that he would be with him as soon as he finished with another patient. My father often told me that he appreciated James' gentle demeanor, calming voice, and gentle handling of the daily moments and events (e.g., fluid removed from his stomach, liver biopsy, blood transfusions, scans).

James was working the day my father was released and able to go home. He assisted my father with his change of clothing and told him to take care and how much he enjoyed being his nurse. Many times, I would find James and my father sharing stories. James was attentive, never in a hurry, very gracious and understanding. Please share this little "story" with James Hayes. My father passed away peacefully in the early morning hours over a month later in his home. James was such a blessing to him when our father needed it the most.