Kayla Whitthoeft displayed unforgettable compassion and thoughtfulness to my family on the day my mother passed away. Kayla may not remember us, but her kindness left a mark on our hearts forever. Even this many months since mom passed, I still think of her and how much peace she gave us in those final moments.

That day, Kayla wasn't just a nurse; she was a source of comfort and peace in the middle of our heartbreak. We decided not to bring the small grandkids into the ICU to say goodbye in person, so Kayla helped us FaceTime with her before she passed. She made keepsake hearts with her fingerprints and a memory book to help us hold on to those last moments. She also brought her own Bluetooth speaker so we could play my mother's favorite worship music. That ICU room became a cathedral of praise, filled with peace and love as we said goodbye.

Kayla even brought special books for the young grandchildren —books that gently explained why they wouldn't see their Nana again, but reminded them that the love they shared with her would never be gone. That small act showed just how deeply Kayla cares, not just for her patients, but for the entire family.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Kayla. Your presence that day was a blessing. You gave us comfort and unforgettable moments of love and grace. You'll never know the full impact you had on all of us. May God bless you always for the work you do.