My husband suffered a mild heart attack and was admitted for two separate stent procedures in the cath lab. After the first procedure, he was transferred to the ICU, where we met Heather. From the outset, Heather's sparkling personality, wit, knowledge, and caring demeanor show through. Although my husband and I are both clinicians, Heather instinctively understood that being on the other side of the bedrails meant we had the same needs as any other patient and family. We needed information that was clear, concise, and direct; we needed reassurance, and we needed that most elusive of qualities in healthcare; we needed CARE.

As an example, at one point, Heather asked if we needed anything. We both declined, but she inquired further. Perhaps something to drink? We both declined. She then turned directly to me and asked if I had actually eaten or had anything to drink all day long. That directness, tempered with kindness, made me stop trying to be invisible (we healthcare providers never want to be a burden!) and realize I hadn't, in fact, had anything since 6:30 AM that morning (it was now almost 4 PM)! Heather took care of both of us for two days in the ICU, as well as our family and friends who came to visit. She ensured that communication was given to the night shift to notify the front desk I would be arriving early the next day to be at the bedside when they took my husband for procedure #2. She made sure that we understood what was happening, when, and what the plan was going forward. She acted as a patient advocate, getting orders for different pain medications and having a midline catheter inserted to make frequent blood draws easier on my husband. And through it all, she kept her smile and sense of humor!

As a nurse myself, it is easy to spot when a colleague goes above and beyond the usual. We all work hard every day to ensure high-quality care for our patients. But Heather exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional caregiver. Broward Health is lucky to have this shining example of excellence!