Unbeknownst to us, my family member was experiencing their last days on earth with us. Arriving from out of town, we did not know what we would experience. There are no words that adequately describe what we felt seeing my family member with a machine for and all kinds of tubes and medications.

In that moment, it would be difficult to the person with an amazing sense of humor a quick wit, and amazing heart and great fashion sense. Summerlin was a Godsend. She saw my family member! She talked to them as if tending to every need. She provided comfort and made sure our family member was presentable. Summerlin answered all my and my mother's questions so patiently and thoroughly.

When talking with Summerlin, when we first arrived, she made a statement that, for whatever reason, steadied my soul. She said your family member is so young, and I can tell they are an amazing person. You family member looked like they were a lot of fun.

However, it was the last gesture of kindness that I cherish the most. She was ending her shift and would be off for a few days. Before she left, she came to the room one more time and asked if it was okay to say a prayer for my family member. I responded, "Absolutely!" As she walked out the door, she said I'll be praying for you.

Summerlin's thoughtfulness, kindness, and empathy exemplify how compassion and professionalism can help a patient and their family through a difficult time. I am so very thankful for her. I knew my family member was in safe hands.

Thank you, Summerlin-you have done your profession proud, and I am praying for you.