Having worked in nursing for 30 years and just celebrated a 33rd wedding anniversary with my husband, who has great health, we never saw his heart attack coming! But we were in for even more of a shock when we learned he needed bypass surgery on 5 coronary arteries! Though he was well cared for by the Doctors and PA., it was the nursing care in CICU that blew me away!

It was so excellent that I as a nurse and wife felt completely comfortable leaving my husband at night so I could rest. This was in large part due to his nurse, Sam, who cared for him before and after surgery. It was surreal as a nurse to be the "family member" of the patient and witness firsthand the kindness, knowledge, compassion, and excellent skill set displayed by Sam.

Repeatedly, I saw him support the team, ask needed questions of the Providers, and focus on the details of caring for my husband. His effective communication greatly increased our confidence! My husband peppered Sam with a multitude of questions about the upcoming surgery. Sam patiently answered each one giving understandable education and easing our anxiety. After the bypass surgery, Sam again gave amazing care and supported me in the role of "wife" instead of expecting me to be a "nurse."

Our son graduated high school the day after my husband's surgery, and we were sad my husband could not attend. However, Sam and the CICU manager, set up an iPad so my husband could watch it livestreamed. This thoughtfulness on their part showed extraordinary care and will never be forgotten. We will forever be grateful for Sam!