Melinda was a calm in my storm when I was experiencing threatened miscarriage during my first pregnancy. She was gentle and kind. While we did not spend much time together, I will always remember the way her heart impacted my time at Baylor. This was a very traumatic experience for me. I was traveling – away from my home, my own hospital, my doctors.

She made me feel safe and cared for, more than just as a nurse, but as a friend. She didn’t just tell me everything was going to be okay. I will always remember her words, “It’s okay to cry. You are going through real, hard things right now. If anyone tries to tell you something different, I’ve got two elbows and will find you in whatever state you’re at.” I’ve never felt so protected by a stranger.

As a nurse myself, I know how hard it is to tell exactly what a patient needs during their care. As I was being discharged, she said, “I’m not sure if you’re a hugger, but…” and before I even knew that I wanted to touch this stranger, her embrace was healing something inside of me. I will always be grateful for the peace she brought during such a painful experience.

Thank you, Melinda, for being you. Your empathy does not go unnoticed.