I am a nurse of 35 years and work at Cleveland Clinic Main Campus. I have seen many nurses in my career. To say I am a tough critic is an understatement.

My father came into the hospital for chest pain. He is 90 years old and has Parkinsons. I drove out from Cleveland in the middle of the night. I arrived at 8 am. The moment I arrived, I was met by Kayla. She was professional and friendly. She took me to my father’s room and let him know I was there. The way she spoke to my father and the compassion she exuded I have not seen in many young nurses. She had a student with her, and she treated her student with compassion as well.

Throughout his echocardiogram, his stress test, and the long day waiting for results, she kept him informed. She made him feel safe and was so respectful. She covered his backside and helped him maintain his modesty while getting up the first time. She paid attention to details and always with a comforting smile. I would hire her to my team any day. She truly is top-notch.

This may not seem an extraordinary event, but to a 90-year-old man who had to face his own mortality, this meant the world to him and to me. Thank you is not enough.