Reba showed outstanding care and compassion to a patient during a pre-op visit for an upcoming surgery. Unknown to Reba, the patient was going through some significant personal problems. The care and compassion that Reba showed the patient – even in what might have seemed to be a small gesture – made a significant, positive impact on the patient. So much so, that the patient posted the following on her public Facebook page:

"The pen.

Just a pen to most, but to me – it’s a reminder of one of the best hugs I ever received from a stranger.

I went in for my pre-op appointment yesterday for my scheduled surgery. By the time I had labs drawn and an EKG, I was taken to Reba who took my vitals. When she asked, “How is your day going?” – I broke down. It was barely 1pm and I was SO physically and mentally exhausted. She didn’t ask what’s wrong. She just gave me the biggest hug. The kind of hug that instantly gave my mind and body peace and calmness.

As we went into her office to discuss surgery prep and other scary things, she gave me this pen to sign my name. She said, “here – you can use my GOOD pen – and I know a good pen when I write with it.” As we finished up in her office, she walked me out and said, “Keep the pen. I have another one.” I turned around and gave HER a big hug. The last thing she said to me was: “You got this – and you can do this.” I walked out of the hospital gripping that pen, not because I was just given a really good pen. But because this pen was now a reminder that I can do hard things. It’s also a reminder that sometimes, we all just need a hug – and a reminder that everything is going to be okay.

Thank you, Reba at AdventHealth Remond. You gave me strength when I needed it. You picked me up when I was down. You were so kind and genuine with me - even though I had just met you.

Thank you for the pen. I will carry it with me as a reminder that I can do hard things."