Derek McWilliams, RN

My father was 93 years old and had suffered a fall in which his neck was severely cracked- a re-injury of a bone fusion from a previous accident. Upon arrival at Maine Health on Tuesday, he was immediately classified as critically ill with heart and respiratory issues. When he was stabilized and finally moved up to SICU 2, we were so happy to see him settled and resting comfortably after his ordeal.

Returning the next day, we were greeted warmly by Nurse Derek McWilliams, who swiftly met each and every possible need Dad could have had that entire day. He was super friendly and made us, as nervous family members, feel right at ease as we engaged in easy conversation. He seemed to have a deep understanding and quick anticipation of anything and everything his patient, my father, could need. It was clear to me that he was precise and professional, and confident in his work. He knew how precarious my dad's status was and took great measures to make us all comfortable and put us at ease, all the while being an ever-vigilant caregiver. No question went unanswered, and we were so pleased to know that Dad was in such good hands.

Flash forward to Saturday: Dad was 2 days post-surgery, and we learned there were going to be some very difficult decisions to make regarding what could possibly be end-of-life care. Derek was once again on duty and took the time to explain everything that could possibly transpire. He was careful and courteous to us as I had to help my frightened, grieving Mom understand what was happening. He obviously understood how distraught she was and worked through that with the utmost patience. When I asked him through my tears if losing a patient was indeed the most difficult aspect of being a SICU nurse, his response warmed my heart and helped make all the decisions we faced much easier. He told me in no uncertain terms that it had been an honor to care for my dad and that he appreciated us taking the time and effort to carefully consider all that we needed to decide on Dad's behalf.

Derek's unwavering professional care and compassion for my father and my family are to be commended. Losing a loved one is one of the most profoundly agonizing experiences one has to face in this life, and we are beyond grateful for Derek's guidance, his kindness, and unwavering support as we watched Dad pass away peacefully. When our mum tearfully asked if Dad was cold as he passed, Derek's simple act of bringing in a nice, warm heated blanket and placing it on him was such a caring gesture and brought her a measure of comfort beyond what we could have hoped for at that time.

Allow me to also offer praise to all the nurses and Staff in SICU 2, as we felt they were incredibly caring, helpful, compassionate, upbeat, and steadfast in their work as we witnessed throughout the brief time we spent with Dad that week. They never minded answering any of our questions, and it was amazing how they knew exactly what to say to help allay any of our fears or reservations. It brought us immense relief to know Dad had the absolute best care ever, and we cannot express our gratitude enough for their help and dedication to their work. Truly commendable and most appreciated, we will remember them all as we reflect on this time in our lives. Thank you for the opportunity to honor Derek's work!