My husband, C, was admitted to the hospital from the ED with severe anemia and extreme shortness of breath, three weeks after bypass surgery. Tom was C's day nurse from the time of his admittance through the next three days. Tom made us feel comfortable from the very beginning. We had an instant connection. We were scared and confused. Tom was caring, supportive and encouraging as he helped us get settled and then administered the first of two blood transfusions to C. He helped us to understand the thoracentesis procedure that C would also be undergoing in the following 2 days. He was remarkably patient and reassuring. His calmness and gentleness comforted us and helped keep us focused during the very stressful 24 hours. He went out of his way to be present when the cardiothoracic surgeons made their visits, presenting us with new and often confusing information that Tom helped us understand. It meant so much to have another "ear" to help us put the pieces of the puzzle together. He candidly shared his experience, observations, and insight. Twice C's BP dropped suddenly. Tom immediately notified the hospitalist with the concern and the hospitalist looked into it straight away and came to see us. The holidays are a difficult time to be in the hospital. Tom's kindness, warmth, and positivity gave us cheer and hope. All of our nurses have been wonderful, but Tom was exceptional. He is a cut above. He cared for us like family.