My mother suffered a heart attack on Valentine's Day. She was inpatient for approximately 10 days between two different admissions over the course of 2 weeks. Jake was her nurse for about 5 or 6 of those days. He was absolutely amazing. He treated my mother with such kindness and compassion, checking on her constantly, making sure all of us (as her family members) had what we needed, and even giving us hugs when he'd see us wearily come back to sit by her side day after day.

He brought in a game one day from home that he thought we'd enjoy, and when she was struggling to find anything that sounded good to eat or drink, he went to the cafeteria himself to get her a drink she loved. When he found out she loves doing crossword puzzles from the Portland Press Herald, he started hunting down papers for her. He had an incredible bedside manner, served tirelessly as her advocate when we were confused or had concerns, and never came in without a smile. He truly felt like family to us. My mom was a nurse for 40 years, and I have been a nurse for 10, and we know how rare someone like Jake is. He was such a bright spot for us during such a terribly dark time. We appreciate him more than he will ever know!