Michelle was with us from the very beginning of H's journey. We were unexpectedly sent to Women’s and Children’s Hospital when a diagnosis of pneumonia turned into an unexpected diagnosis of a tumor that was found in H's right lung.

She was on the floor that night and helped ease our sadness and pain with open arms and a warm smile, and heart. We left after a 4-day stay, initially for treatment of the pneumonia. We were then back after H endured an over-8-hour surgery. After a very long and very stressful day, Michelle was waiting for us in Hazel’s room with big hugs and much-needed comfort and support.

The very next night, she came right in to check on us and challenged H to a race. She had her out of bed and smiling less than 24 hours after a major invasive lung surgery that required the removal of her entire middle right lung lobe and a tumor that was 5 cm by 6 cm in size. Michelle “lost” gracefully and gave Hazel a certificate award for 1st place!