Richard has been his dialysis nurse on multiple occasions. Richard has truly bonded with J and our family during our stay at UNC. J is unable to speak due to having a trach, but Richard knows his story from us and talks to him like a brother. He converses with him over the 4 hours as well as to make sure his dialysis is done correctly. Richard assists with repositioning J if he is uncomfortable. Richard makes us as a family feel comfortable, appreciated, and not in the way. We so respect Richard’s bedside manner with our son and his expertise in dialysis. He makes us all aware of how much volume he is able to safely remove and updates the nurses as well. He explains everything he is doing every time he comes. J has to have dialysis at least 3 times a week for 4 hours at a time. It is a tough exhausting experience for our son but he must have it done. We are so glad when we see Richard come into the room for dialysis. We know J is safe with Richard. J can answer by nodding his head to yes or no questions. He responds to Richard while he is there and it is so sweet to watch the interaction. Richard asks if he is in pain or if he is comfortable. He then helps J get what he needs. Richard shows extraordinary compassion for our son and our family. Richard has become family to us.