Grandma was rushed to the hospital following a sudden onset of shortness of breath. She had been visiting with her kids and grandkids just a couple of hours before, so this was incredibly unexpected, and we were all wildly unprepared.

The ER providers, nurses, and trauma surgeons tried extensive resuscitative efforts and surgeries to stop her internal bleeding, but there was ultimately nothing else that could be done. Grandma was admitted to the MICU, and her 5 kids were told they needed to say their goodbyes.

And while this story is heartbreaking to relive and share, our family felt blessed to have Beth caring for Grandma - and ultimately caring for all of us. We felt it was important to highlight the difference she made in this devastating event in our lives.

Clinically, Beth handled all the patient care tasks with a calm demeanor and grace - managing the vent, lines, drips - all the things that accompany a very critically ill patient. In addition to the expert clinical care provided, Beth went above and beyond to nurture our entire family through this tragic day.

We have a very large family, and as the morning continued on, there was an ongoing trickle of grandkids - one by one - hesitantly coming to say their final goodbye. And as more family members arrived, Beth warmly welcomed each of us - offering the experience we needed individually - recognizing that some needed to be by Grandma's side while others needed to just cry in the lobby with family.

Beth continued to keep Grandma clinically stable so each grandkid was allowed the opportunity to see her one last time. Beth never rushed us, never made us feel like a burden, and never wavered in her compassion.

When the time came to say the final goodbye, Beth offered us the opportunity to be at the bedside, as many of us as we desired. It was clear that she was going to do whatever it took to make this transition as peaceful and loving as possible for our family.

Some of us went into the room while others stayed together in the lobby, while all care measures were ceased. Beth provided explanations and prepared the family for what was next.

After Grandma left this earth and joined the Lord above, Beth individually hugged each family member and offered her sincerest condolences. She encouraged us to take whatever time we needed, and while her patient was technically gone, she continued to provide emotional support and care to the family.

A few days later, we were all together again at Grandma's visitation services, and Beth walked in - wearing scrubs - presumably after her work shift. Beth showed up. She came and showed support to our family. There were instant tears as we all saw her there, remembering the significant difference she made in all our lives.

None of us were ready to say goodbye to Grandma, but we will forever be grateful for the compassion Beth showed that day - helping us all cope with Grandma's unexpected passing. It is clear that Beth isn't simply doing her job; Beth is fulfilling her calling.

Parkview is fortunate to have nurses like Beth - those who can make a light shine in the dark.