After several days in the ICU at VHC, following a week in CCU at another hospital, my mother was declining rapidly. I had not left the hospital once my mother was admitted. Carol stayed with my mother while I went home to shower, and continued to stay with her when I returned so I could get a few hours of sleep.

My mother was not able to push the call button and needed constant swabs of water in her mouth. Carol treated her with dignity and compassion, so I felt comfortable taking a few moments for myself. She went above and beyond caring for my mother, touching not only my heart but my family's hearts. She is an exceptional person. I will always remember her and be grateful for all she did.

My mother passed away two days later. I know that while Carol was with her, holding her hand, swabbing her mouth, talking to her, my mom felt safe and loved in my brief absence. That is not something one learns in school. Those are fundamental qualities instilled in one throughout their life. Thank you, Carol, for being an amazing nurse and caring for my mom the way you did.