My mother was admitted to the ICU from the Emergency Room. She spent 14 days there on a respirator, also suffering from bacterial double pneumonia, RSV, and other health issues. This illness came on suddenly, and my mother never regained consciousness, other than briefly opening her eyes or squeezing my hand once or twice. It was such a shock, almost impossible to believe that my mother was even there. We still don’t know how she became so sick.

My sister and I spent split shifts with her so that one of us was with her at all times. I was simply amazed by the wonderful, compassionate care that all the nurses and staff provided for my mother, but Charity was simply different.

The moment I met her and she told me she would be my mother’s nurse for the first time, I instantly felt relief. My mother’s responses to her care were so encouraging. Several times, even with days between her shifts, Charity worked tirelessly to get my mother’s monitor numbers just right while managing multiple IVs and medications—sedatives, pain meds, and more—to keep my mother as peaceful and comfortable as possible. She carefully monitored her respiratory levels and knew exactly what needed to be done.

Charity’s skill and gentle, hands-on approach were remarkable. Her touch was kind, and her confidence was comforting. I know my mother would have loved her. She seemed like a beautiful, dark-haired angel, a friend sent to help us through an incredibly painful and difficult time. Charity also took the time to comfort me when I had questions or when the weight of everything became too much.

When the time came, after two weeks, to meet with my mother’s doctor and our family to discuss removing her from life support, I specifically requested Charity to be there. She immediately accepted and brought such deep compassion and strength to that meeting.

My mother was removed from life support and transitioned to comfort care,  where she lived for three more days. My sister and I never left her side. Though we didn’t have Charity as her nurse during those last few days, we felt incredibly blessed to have had her care and guidance up to that point.

All of the nurses and staff treated my mother with dignity and compassion, but there was something truly special about Charity. She had a glow about her, and I feel deeply blessed to have known her. I will always be grateful for her compassion, skill, and unwavering care. She helped my mother in the best way possible, and she helped our family through one of the hardest times of our lives.

I am thankful for people like her, who bring light and grace to places where not everyone gets well. Her care will never be forgotten.