Patient M.D. is a 57-year-old male with newly diagnosed stage 4 esophageal cancer. Three weeks before his hospitalization, he was fully ambulatory and independent, and unfortunately, his condition deteriorated rapidly as his brain metastases were growing. This nurse was assigned to him for two days, creating a strong bond with him and his family. During this time, she learned that the patient and his partner had been together for nearly thirty years and had never had a wedding. This nurse immediately sprang into action, orchestrating and planning a dream wedding for the sweet couple.

News among his family spread quickly, and the guest list amounted to nearly 60 people. This large-scale coordination is no easy feat in the hospital (especially on a Saturday!); however, before we knew it, this nurse had planned a wedding for the next day. The ceremony was to occur in the courtyard, with decorations, food, and drink available. The nurse wasn't scheduled to work the next day. However, she came in on her day off to help celebrate and facilitate the event for the patient and his family. After taking a couple of hours to set up the event in the courtyard, the patient was too unwell to go downstairs, and this nurse quickly pivoted the plans and relocated the setup to his room. The nurse made a bouquet for his bride, hung decorations, and poured cider for all the many guests.

Every family member was in tears by the end of the ceremony and continually hugged this nurse for all her hard work in making their dream come true. I genuinely hope we can honor this nurse for her amazing work. She has been a nurse for only a year, yet her impact is insurmountable. Thank you, Kira!