Katie was the ICU nurse for my brother-in-law who was admitted as an attempted suicide patient. Along with him came a family in shock, a family angry with the patient and a family worrying about what happens next. Katie was the utmost professional all the time. She recognized family members as we came to visit and immediately gave us updates and answered questions. But what impressed me most was her compassion for my brother-in-law. It was so hard for the rest of us to be compassionate even though we know he is mentally ill.
Even though he had no care for his life, Katie treated him like he was the most important being. We all learned so much from watching her. We saw Katie compassionate in everything she did and said. We had time to calm down and took our lead from her when he was finally conscious enough to talk. I truly believe that being there with Katie will help us deal with my brother-in-law more compassionately when he goes home. She is my angel sent to kick off this (Catholic) Jubilee Year of Mercy. I will try to emulate her every day and never come close to the wonderful person she is.