In life, you come across many people. Some good, some bad; and there is that special few that will change the entire trajectory of your life. For me, this happened when my life had been flipped upside down. I had a lobectomy and had severe complications. I was at my absolute lowest when I met and was cared for by the most amazing person, Nurse Tiffany.

From the very first moment that I met her, she made me feel seen as a person, not just as a patient. Her kindness and patience gave me the comfort I needed during one of the most difficult times in my life. She felt like a blessing that I didn't realize I had needed. She let me cry when I needed to without any judgment at all, she listened when I was scared, she explained things that I didn't understand, and she would simply sit with me when words were not enough.

At one point, I had gone septic, and she fought for me in ways that I will be forever thankful for. She went above and beyond for myself and for my family. She demanded answers and was my voice when I wasn't able to advocate for myself. Her dedication went above and beyond clinical skill; it was her heart that made all the difference. She was a beautiful light when my days were so incredibly dark. I will never forget how safe and supported she made me feel. She helped pull me out of the hardest time in my life and made sure that I made it home for my daughter's birthday.

She never gave up on me, and I am deeply grateful for the impact that she has had on my life. She embodies the very best of what nursing is. I hope that everyone gets to experience the amazing kindness and love of Nurse Tiffany at Stanford.