On Tuesday, an elderly male veteran checked into VHSO's ENT clinic. Tuesdays are the busiest days in ENT clinic for Laura R. Williams, RN. During the nurse intake process, the patient became tearful and visibly upset when Laura asked about changes in mood or depression. The veteran shared with Laura that he had recently received a stage 4 cancer diagnosis. Laura listened, took her time, and was compassionate to this veteran. After his appointment with the doctor, Laura asked the veteran if he had time to talk to someone at the mental health clinic about his new cancer diagnosis and his depression. The veteran gladly accepted and was appreciative that Laura took the time out of her busy day to listen and acknowledge his feelings. Laura took her 15-minute break to personally walk with the veteran to the mental health clinic. She listened to him and talked with him on the walk over, and once they got to mental health clinic, she gave him a hug. As Laura and I were leaving for the day, we passed the veteran coming through the building entrance. Laura stopped to check on him and ask him about his visit. The veteran was smiling and thanked her for taking time out of her busy day to ensure that he had all the help he needed. He was genuinely appreciative and seemed much happier than when Laura first met him while checking into his ENT appointment that morning.

Laura has been a Nurse at the VA ENT Clinic since 2021. She consistently goes above and beyond for the veterans and families she comes in contact with, even on her busiest days. Most importantly, Laura treats the veterans with respect, dignity, and like they are her family.