My father had been in the hospital for two weeks, and because it was the holiday season, he had several different nurses. This was difficult because my dad had dementia and could not communicate well or answer simple questions at times. If a new nurse came in and I wasn’t there to explain his parameters, treatment became challenging for both him and the nursing staff. He would pull out his IV or catheter. He had a hard time feeding himself, and if left alone, he would either not eat or make a bigger mess for the nurses to clean up. The hospital was at capacity, so time was limited in each room.

When I first met Rebecca, she immediately showed compassion for both my dad and me. I was taking care of him by myself, as my mom was ill and our other relatives live out of town. I’m a schoolteacher, and after two weeks, I had to return to work. It was incredibly hard not being there because I knew how much he needed me—to advocate for him, feed him, wash his face, and simply be present so he wouldn't be alone all day.

Rebecca saw this and truly heard my concern. She would feed him when his food arrived, brush his teeth, wash his face, apply lotion, reposition him, and more—things other nurses simply didn’t have time to do. She genuinely cared for my dad. One of the things that brought me the most comfort and helped me sleep at night was her nightly texts. She would let me know how he was doing before she left for the evening. She simply went above and beyond what was required of her.

My mom was finally able to visit my dad after three weeks. I told Rebecca we would be coming, and she said she would “get him ready.” She cleaned him up, straightened his room, ensured he had his medications, and completed his vitals so we could spend uninterrupted time with him. He had declined significantly the night before, and we knew he could pass at any moment.

After an emotional family visit, I left to take my mom home. I knew he was in good hands because Rebecca was there. Later, she texted me to let me know she had stayed with him for a while, tucked him in with his stuffed animal gorilla (an inside story), made sure he was comfortable, and finally left at 8:15 PM—over an hour after her shift ended at 7:00. I got word shortly after that my dad passed away at 8:30. Just 15 minutes later.

She cared for him, and I know he felt it. It means so much to know she was with him until the end. I can picture her fixing his blankets, brushing his hair back, straightening his pillow, changing the TV channel, and turning off the lights. When she walked away and ended her shift, I believe my dad knew he had received the best care possible and decided it was time to go.

I cannot thank Rebecca enough for being there for me and my family when we couldn’t be. There is no comfort like knowing someone truly cares for someone you love.