I met William Friday afternoon in the ER as he was doing an IV on my father-in-law (S). He was extremely helpful and sympathetic to the situation. He was called back down later to run a PICC line as the veins were shrinking and collapsing with S. As he came in, he explained everything in full detail, so we knew what to expect. Again, he was super helpful in answering all our questions. He allowed me to say goodbye as he was gathering everything he needed and said no rush, take as long as I needed before I had to drive back to Crossville (2.5 hours). He explained they would move S to the ICU that evening, and he would be there in the morning on Saturday to take care of him.

He had the hard job of calling us Saturday to explain hospice was being called per the request of S and informed us of the steps being taken and what to expect. He was very sincere and patient with us as the news was being processed. William answered all of our questions and gave us peace in knowing that things were going to be okay. After we arrived, he gave the family ample time to spend with S and was very compassionate to not only S but the family. The doctor came in and persuaded S to change his mind for a few days. This did upset the family as we were there to honor S’s wishes of passing peacefully. William apologized and again answered all of our questions and told us how things might turn out as S's condition progressed. S thought William was one of the best caretakers he had had. He called Will his buddy.

That Sunday morning S was again requesting hospice to come in and so the family was called. S asked for an iced coffee to be brought in and then asked if "his buddy, Will” was coming in soon. Will left a lasting impression on us as how caretakers, whether it is nurses, doctors, aides, or administrators, should care for the patients and show compassion and understanding of their situation. He is an excellent person, and he should be recognized for his true compassion toward the patients and the families. He is a true asset to your facility in Tullahoma, and I wish we had half the man he was here in Crossville to care for people.

Thank you, Will, for all you did. You touched his heart and ours. Every time someone asks about S's story, I cannot finish talking enough about you without choking up and wiping a tear, as you have gone above expectations and were the light on our gloomy day. God bless you, Will, and keep shining bright for others to see and feel the love you show to everyone.