My husband was a patient of Alicia's for just one day. She, however, made a huge impact on us in that one day. My husband had surgery on his prostate on Friday and was bleeding too much for them to send him home. He was then assigned to the Observation wing.

My husband had been wearing an indwelling catheter for almost three months. The surgery he had was to help him empty his bladder more freely and more completely. It had been an extremely challenging and emotional three months. The surgery would have determined whether he would have to wear a catheter permanently. Needless to say, it has been an emotional, anxiety-filled ride. The day Alicia was his nurse started early in the morning. She immediately encouraged him and gave him such hope. The catheter was to be removed, then try to urinate, then ultrasound to determine if he was emptying his bladder.

All through the process Alicia cheered him on and with her words and kindness calmed him. The catheter was removed, and it was a tense hour to determine what was to come. She gently did the ultrasound, continuing to be his biggest cheerleader. The ultrasound proved he was indeed emptying his bladder and was able to be discharged with no catheter. There were many prayers, tears, and shouts of joy! Alicia celebrated with us, and we felt so loved by her. She sent us home prepared and so well taken care of. We cannot speak highly enough of Alicia's professionalism, care, and tenderness.