My dad was in the ICU for several days there at Wellstar West Georgia and then died as he could not overcome his sickness. Just a little history on him. He was once a nurse himself at that very hospital. He worked in numerous areas including the ER. I think the ER was his last stop and due to his health, he couldn't handle the physical part that the position required. But he loved his job, took pride in it, and met a lot of wonderful people while there. I run into former peers of his all the time and from what I gather, it seems like a special place to work.

I know my dad was cared for by a lot of people. Some I met; some I didn't get the pleasure to meet as I was not able to be there as much as I would have liked but I knew, without doubt, he was in the best hands I could ask for. I can see that every person in the ICU has a passion for what they do and take pride in giving the best care to their patients. To the supervisors who seek the talent, hire, and train ... KUDOS to you. You are doing a wonderful job. You have the right people in the right place.

Tiffany Downing is a nurse I met. She was there caring for my dad the day they placed him on the vent. I will not forget her because she called me and allowed me to speak to my dad before placing him on the vent. I didn't realize then - that would be the last time I would talk to him. Tiffany was personable and has a passion for what she does. She not only cared for my dad, but she cared for me as well. She always checked on me. Tiffany is doing what she is meant to do. She is lucky. I hope she realizes what she has meant to me and my family and what she means to the many whom she interacts with daily. I am happy to have met her and interact with her. Nurses, sometimes, don't get the credit they deserve. Tiffany impacted me so much that I have raved non-stop about what she did. I'm not easily impressed, but Tiffany impressed me enough to write a nomination for the first time ever in my life.

Nurses are some of the toughest people I know. They work endless hours, deal with the most complex issues, and have to deal with so much of the unknown. I appreciate all of YOU. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to write to you. You have a special group of people in that unit.