JWS, Jr. was just 96 years young when he entered Wilmington Hospital on Dec 21, 2014. He was having trouble breathing and it was soon determined that he had a blot clots in his legs and one in his lungs. He was transferred to the ICU and Kate was assigned as his nurse. They formed a special bond the week that he survived in the ICU, making each other smile, talking about his life and all that he had accomplished. She affectionately called him blue eyes and he would give her the biggest smile. As she told him and our family, she fell "in love" that week. JWS, Jr. and his wife were married for 74 years and he lost her in September 2013. He continued to live in their home until his death.

Kate made him as comfortable as she could those last days. She always had a smile on her face and not only cares for the patient, but also the family. Being in the hospital on Christmas Day has got to be one of the hardest for both the patient and the staff. Our family was there for him most of the day, but left for a few hours to visit with our extended family. Kate sat with him while we were gone and when we returned she told us the stories that they had shared.

JWS, Jr. had a great memory and could tell you stories from his childhood. She enjoyed every one of them. He had made 11 birdhouses and 3 mailboxes that resembled trains for his family for Christmas. He told Kate about every one of them as they were all a little different and he remembered the uniqueness of each one of them.

He passed away in the ICU on December 29, 2014. Kate was not his nurse that day, but was just a few doors away from us during this difficult time. She checked on us frequently and when he passed she came by to make sure the family was doing OK.

Kate is a special nurse. Compassionate, caring, cheerful, and extraordinary. These are words that describe Kate. She also took time out of her day to attend his viewing on January 2. She truly loves her job and the patients.

Our family lost a great man, but Kate made his last days more bearable.