Coming into this field as an older person can be overwhelming at times. This last Friday was one of those days. I doubted myself, my abilities, and felt inept as a nurse. It was my worst day yet as a nurse. I started to cry and didn’t want anyone to see me, so I slipped into the empty med room, and Eric happened to walk in. He touched my heart with his kindness and reassured me that this, too, would pass, and I would get on the other side of this feeling. He shared with me struggles that he has gone through recently and in that moment gave me what I need to get through the shift.

Toward the end of the shift, I was given an EO (early out), and Eric offered to take my most difficult patient, who was pretty much one-on-one, even though I had other patients. He basically offered to take the most difficult patient on the floor.

I want to let you guys know that Eric was there for me. He offered me a life preserver in the storm. I will never forget his kindness, and I would like him to get recognition for his heartfelt love and caring heart.