I will never forget the care that Nick Cerovac gave my mom while she underwent treatment in the ICU. My mom was an incredible woman who unexpectedly became gravely ill. Nick was compassionate and proactive, always in her room and working to ensure she received optimal care.

When the doctors explained something we didn't understand, he would take the time to make sure it made sense to us. I knew Nick was an incredible nurse when I heard him make a suggestion to a physician, and the physician agreed and ordered what Nick had shared. We requested Nick for the following day because we felt her critical condition required the level of attention Nick had provided.

Despite this, my mom took a turn for the worse just as Nick's shift ended for the day. He didn't care about the time; he cared about my mom and our family, and he worked to help. He stayed for about 4 to 5 hours longer to ensure she received everything she needed. When it seemed that she wouldn't make it, Nick asked if we'd like to call for a Priest, and he made sure she received her last rites and final sacraments. This is because he had heard us talking about her faith and knew how important it was to her and our family. He also made sure she had her rosary.

My mom passed the next day, and it's been the hardest few weeks of our lives. My father, aunt, sister, and I have all spoken about the impact Nick had and how we believe his care was crucial during the worst time in our lives. Nick and his wife attended my mom's wake, and Nick's kindness and compassion again blew me away. He doesn't clock out or stop tending to others.

Though I wish this story included my mom's recovery, I think it's just as important to tell while we overcome with grief because it is those people who support you no matter the outcome that make a difference in the lives of those suffering.