My husband battled with ALS for several years. I am his full-time caregiver and cheerleader. Last year, upon entering Hospice, we were fortunate to have Joyce Davis, RN, with VIA Health Partners, assigned. She is now a cherished part of our support community.

Joyce wears many hats, and they all fit well! She is first and foremost an exceptional nurse, and she cared for my husband in a compassionate way with some humor tossed in for good measure. I have to believe that he received the same level of care that her family members would. It’s not just a stethoscope, a blood pressure cuff, or a thermometer in her bag of tools. Joyce engaged with him and talked to him about things he was interested in. Joyce is also an educator. I learned something new almost every visit, which empowers me to better care for my husband.

Did I mention she’s patient and willing to answer the same question or show me the same procedure as if I’ve never asked or seen it before? Joyce is available, and between visits, I can usually reach her for a quick phone call – assuming she’s not with other clients. This puts me at ease to know that I can contact Joyce when I’m worried about something, and don’t have to wait until the next visit. Joyce is a good listener and encourager and takes an interest in our family and friends. She invests time with us, which tells me she cares! She always tells me I’m doing a good job, which may or may not be true, but it means a lot coming from her!

Some may read the above and think that Joyce is just performing her job description, but I know better. Whether she is wearing a nursing, educator, listener, encourager, or interested party hat, Joyce always shows up for both of us with kindness and professionalism. There are nurses who perform their jobs and nurses who share themselves as they care for others. Joyce falls into the latter category. Even though we’re pretty sure he will not win his battle with ALS, we are so grateful to have Joyce as part of our support community and in our foxhole!