While taking care of a COVID-positive patient who was transferred to MICU, Genna Howard, RN learned from her patient Mr. F, that he was a proud World War II Veteran. Genna sadly learned from her patient that prior to his COVID diagnosis, he had planned a trip to Hawaii. As the conversation continued, Mr. F shared that he was a minesweeper in the Pacific and was going to Hawaii for the 80th attack on Pearl Harbor. He had planned to meet his friends and fellow Veterans there.

With Veteran’s Day the next day, Genna had a plan. Genna set out on a mission to honor this Veteran who unfortunately would be spending Veteran’s Day in MICU. Following her 12-hour shift, Genna went to Hobby Lobby and purchased every flag she could find. She purchased a banner, streamers, a card, and even red, white, and blue beads. With the decorations and supplies on hand, Genna returned to the hospital to accomplish her mission. Along with help, Genna dutifully went about decorating the patient’s room and his door while the patient slept.

Mr. F had no idea this was happening and woke to the surprise of patriotic decorations in his room and outside of his donor to recognize and acknowledge his Service. Mr. F was surprised and brought to tears by the efforts of this team to recognize his Service to his country and mankind. Though this patient may not remember much of his time in MICU, I am sure he will remember this gesture of honor and respect! This act shows that what is done from the heart always reaches the heart.