I came into the hospital with an infection of a spinal injury. It was so incredibly painful. Hirut was so thoughtful when caring for me. She made sure my pain was as well managed as it could be. She anticipated my needs, and I never felt abandoned by her. She treated me just like a mama bear. When I was still waking up from surgery and dealing with not having eaten for 25 hours, after I had been brought to my room, she gave me peanut butter and graham crackers, and it was heaven. She hand-fed me and, over 3 days, was always right there if I needed her.

She tucked me in, tag side down, and she always had a smile. And when I would complain about certain things, she would very patiently explain the necessity. Hirut was a warm, caring person who went above and beyond. Under her care, I never had to ask for snacks, tuck-ins, or help getting anywhere, and she always did it with a smile. Because she anticipated my needs, that’s what makes her extra special.

She’s a mama bear through and through, and I wish I could have had her as my nurse the whole time I was in the hospital (but I’m glad she got to go home and get a break with her kids). Hirut also made sure to talk to my 7-year-old son when he would come to visit and take an interest in him. She truly goes above and beyond with patient and family care.