I came into the emergency department with a kidney stone that had caused an infection that went into my blood. I went in and had a stent put in between my kidney and bladder. I learned that the stone measured 12 mm. I was admitted to the hospital and put on antibiotics through an IV. When the nurse arrived for his shift, he greeted my family with a great attitude, which lifted my spirit. I asked if I could sleep without interruptions throughout the night, and he did.

I was able to sleep well for the first time in two days, so Joe respected my privacy. He was always ready to administer my meds, and he watched the timing; he was always in my room before the IV machine would sound off without being called. Joe always checked in to make sure I didn’t need anything when passing by my room.

I always felt that others needed more help than I did, so I was patient when things got busy. I would leave my door open, and just had to make eye contact, and he would stop in and check in. He took time to explain that my needs were just as important as others' and to please call if I needed anything.

Joe would explain my medications and what they were treating. He did it without using all the technical terms; he used terms that I could understand, and much better than some doctors.

Joe seemed to like his job and never complained about how busy this got, and it got really busy when more patients came into the area. Some were very demanding, and my nurse just smiled and was always polite and composed.

Joe took time out of his workday in another unit where he was needed to come by and say, “Happy Birthday.” Yes, I spent my birthday in the hospital; it made it a good day.

Joe went above and beyond to make my hospital stay more enjoyable (if there ever is an enjoyable hospital stay). He had a welcoming attitude, he showed compassion for my needs and care, he showed me respect, and communicated clearly.