The first week of March, my 72 year old husband was in LRH under the care of Oscar. Oscar had been his nurse before during one of his many hospitalizations over the last three years. My husband suffered a stroke, heart failure, and kidney failure. This hospitalization was for sepsis, pneumonia, and acute cystitis. Oscar's professional knowledge in dealing with these multiple morbidities was unsurpassed. He was so compassionate and patient. Everyone, except my husband, knew there wasn't much chance of him recovering. Oscar helped me explain to my husband how Hospice could help him feel better. This was not an easy task, as vascular dementia was another of my husband's many problems. When discharge to Hospice was arranged and I was leaving the hospital for the last time, Oscar gave me a big hug. Oscar knew what I was in for in the coming month.

My husband passed away three weeks later. Peacefully, comfortably at home. Over the course of his many hospital stays, my husband has had exemplary care from the nurses, doctors, and staff at Lakeland Regional Medical Center. And Oscar stands out as an outstanding nurse worthy of any award possible.