When our dear friend was admitted to the ICU, we received a call that she had passed away in her sleep. By the time we arrived at the hospital, we learned that she was not gone yet, but was brain-dead. The next couple of days were filled with confusion, grief, and heartbreak as we tried to understand what had happened and come to terms with losing her so suddenly. Once it was confirmed that she was indeed brain dead, we began the process with LOPA to honor her wish — and her son’s wish — for her to donate her organs and give back in her final act.

Our loved one stayed on life support for several days while we surrounded her. During that time, one extraordinary nurse was a constant source of strength and comfort: Aly Byrd, our night nurse. Aly’s compassion, warmth, and empathy were a lifeline for us. She wasn’t just doing her job — she was walking with us through the worst days of our lives. Her gentle voice, calm demeanor, and intuitive care made us feel seen, supported, and never alone.

Looking back, I’m deeply grateful for those days. They gave us time to make peace with what was happening, to be with her, and to say goodbye in our own way. Aly was a big part of that — her presence brought us a sense of steadiness and grace when everything else felt out of control.

Aly embodies every one of Baton Rouge General’s core values: caring, excellence, service, and integrity. She provided far more than medical care — she gave us dignity, compassion, and a sense of human connection that we will never forget. In the darkest moments of our lives, she was a light.