It started as a normal day for our family, a day that should have been one of the happiest, as K and J were bringing a miracle into this world. As things didn't go as planned, many lives were affected that day. J spent 25 days in the trauma ICU and 8 days on the regular floor. Although J received great care from all nurses, two who stood out more made J always feel safe; they really showed their skills, selflessness, compassion, and commitment to both their colleagues and our family.

J's days were always up and down; we took steps forward and steps backwards. Bekah was one of my outstanding nurses. Bekah was encouraging and helped us stay positive. She explained everything clearly and precisely, and when we had questions, she did not once make us feel like anything was a stupid question or concern, or make us feel uncomfortable. She always made us feel our voices were heard. While J was medically sedated and on the ventilator, Bekah was there for her; she was her voice when she couldn't speak, her eyes when she couldn't see, and her ears when she couldn't hear. A true definition of an Advocate! She had hopes when we had fears; she kept us calm in the storm.

Bekah, right away, left little Jesus figurines hidden around the room for K and J's kids to find when they came to visit. This meant more to us than she realizes, as it helped their kids feel comfortable and focus on something else besides watching the unknown of J's health conditions. While Bekah had her own family issues arise, she was there providing for our family. The day J was extubated, Bekah was there. I remember Bekah turning to me and giving me the biggest hug that I'll never forget. I could feel the love and commitment she had for our family. That hug is forever embraced in my heart. Bekah truly is in the right line of work, and her professionalism, knowledge, patience, caring, and kindness make her an amazing person and nurse!

Even if Bekah wasn't assigned to J on her shift, she always checked in with her and our family. She went out of her way on many occasions, even on days when she wasn't her primary nurse, to check on the status of J's recovery. Our family will forever be grateful for the care J received during her ICU stay. The words from J, "Bekah made a difference in my life. How can one person make such a big impact on my life and there for me daily, and now they are gone, and I feel like a piece of me is missing. You'll always be remembered, Bekah! Her fight is our fight!"