I had both of my feet operated on in January 2024. Melissa called me several days following surgery to ask how I was doing; little did she know that I was struggling. My feet were swollen, cold, tight and I was in terrible pain. When my spouse and I started speaking to her about our concerns, she was a listener; we really felt like she heard what we were saying. She didn't shy away from our issues, she stayed with us while we were a bit "panicky" and helped calm our nerves. Melissa asked all the "right" questions and gave us recommendations. While talking with Melissa on the phone she took our questions, wanted to look into these a bit further, did so and called us back with the information that she acquired. She asked for pictures, we sent them, she had someone look at them and reached out to us with the details around what was recommended. Melissa was able to see me as a person who was in pain, who was scared and worried, who was needing assistance, and who had a person with her who also needed reassurance. I feel like she was able to assess the entire situation from a medical standpoint and yet never forget that there were two people on the other end of the line that needed compassion, kindness, respect, and empathy. I have interacted with many health care team workers over the years, and I have never nominated anyone for any type of award. I nominated Melissa because she has made a positive impact on my care. She spoke to me on the phone four times in a 48-hour period. She genuinely cared about how I was improving, and I could feel her warmth through the telephone line. I hope she continues to do this important work as she is making a major difference in the lives of those that are lucky enough to come in contact with her. Melissa, you are incredibly talented. Whether you realize it or not, know that what you do matters! You matter to me and my spouse. We are not sure how we would have managed those 48 hours without you. Thank you so very much, Melissa, for everything.