In early January, a post-cardiac arrest patient was admitted to the Medical Intensive Care Unit. The circumstances were particularly difficult as the care team was unable to reach the family for 3 weeks. When the family was finally located and arrived at the hospital, they had only a day or two to spend by the patient’s bedside before discussing the goals of care.

After discussion, they made the heart-wrenching decision concerning organ donation after cardiac death, a decision rendered hollow when the patient did not expire within the necessary time window for donation. The patient was moved from the OR to a step-down unit, with the focus shifting to comfort-directed care. Two days later, I had the privilege of witnessing Mallory’s extraordinary compassion and dedication.

As the patient’s family kept vigil, his mother and sisters expressed their wishes to wash and shave him, a final act of love and dignity. Without hesitation, Mallory gathered all the necessary supplies and clean towels, ensuring the family had everything they needed. She attended to both the patient and his grieving family, providing care and support throughout their vigil.