Walking into the hospital for the first time, I assumed we would receive quality medical care and trusted the staff would physically care for my dear husband. I never imagined how one of the nurses, Elena Bueltel, would navigate and nurture us through the most difficult period of our lives. A few days after being diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer, my husband was admitted into the hospital. Upon his arrival, B was given the frightening prognosis of two weeks to two months. He was not only struggling with incredible pain but also dealing with the emotional anguish of knowing he was about to leave his three young daughters and wife behind. He was overwhelmed with the medical processes and the complicated physical situation he was facing. Our world suddenly became chaotic and dark. Then, we met Elena. With her intangible and beautiful way, she walked in with compassion, knowledge, and joy. Elena could comfort my husband by simply entering his room with her bright, optimistic "Good morning!" On particularly rough days, she knew exactly what B needed. Whether it was to sit next to him, hold his hand and reassure him that his needs would be both heard and met, or gently push him to move, engage, and interact with others, she was always attuned to what would be best for him. There were spontaneous wheelchair rides for much-needed sunshine and emotional boosts. You could often hear the Taylor Swift music parties, see the crafted bracelets to be worn, hear the conversations filled with laughter and puppies, and daily sense the joy, despite our despairing situation. Elena didn't just handle the happy stuff. She handled the tough stuff with incredible wisdom and insight. She had courageous conversations with us regarding medical issues and his needs without overstepping, giving advice, or contradicting other teams. She was professional, personal, and pivotal in helping my husband's last days be better. Thirty-five days in, Bill was discharged from the hospital. We were nervous. B would be going home with an NG tube, suction, triple lumen PICC line, IV fluids, PCA pump, and TPN- all of this in addition to the numerous medications he took several times a day. It was daunting for our family as we had no nursing experience. We were overwhelmed and scared. Taking my daughter and me aside, Elena spent time after her shift was done and taught us how to do several medical procedures, including administering meds through the PICC line. She was incredibly patient, optimistic, and empowering. Throughout the 11 months of my husband's illness, he landed in the hospital several times. Each time, we hoped to see Elena. She became a consistent source of comfort, calm, and confidence in the midst of crisis. We were blessed each time she entered the room, and we are certain her care extended his days, giving us more time together. Elena helped B achieve closure through their honest and sensitive conversations. Knowing he wanted to leave his family with something special but not having the strength, she helped B create beautiful jars for his three daughters and me- each one filled with heart confetti and a cut-out of his EKG. The note and the gift spoke of Bill's great love and reassured us we would always have his heartbeat with us. Today, my jar sits on my bedroom dresser, and I am daily reminded of my loving husband and Elena's goodness. Her kindness and empathy changed us. She made an incredibly difficult season in our lives beautiful. She is truly an amazing example of the powerful and eternal difference a nurse can make in the lives of the ones she serves. We are forever grateful that Elena Bueltel-Hanson came into our lives.