Elizabeth Rime epitomizes extraordinarily compassionate care. My elderly mother was transported to the emergency department via ambulance with multiple serious health concerns. Liz, who was juggling multiple patients, did so deftly without ever showing any sign of irritation or overwhelm. In truth, she always approached my Mom’s bedside with kindness, compassion, and a smile, helping ease what was a very scary, traumatizing, and confusing situation.

She smiled at my Mom even when it was clear that the number of tasks she was juggling could have easily justified overlooking this simple-but so profoundly meaningful-act. These acts left my Mom feeling cared for, respected, informed, and, to the extent possible, included in her care process as each procedure or care requirement was explained, sometimes multiple times, with reasons.

An ongoing example of this was my Mom’s rather adamant requests for water, even knowing she could not have it because of a surgical procedure. Each time she could, Liz would check whether the diet restrictions had been updated. Not once did she minimize Mom’s discomfort. My Mom felt seen and heard. In a busy emergency department, with many people facing some of the most awful moments in their lives, Liz’s compassionate care was a bright light in a very dark time for my Mom and for me. I will be eternally grateful for the kindness and care she showed us.