In a time that Dad needed stimulation and we were feeling overwhelmed, Maria talked to Dad and told us personal stories of her life. Her compassion was only exceeded by her amazing care. She also talked to us about how to give Dad a chance to make some small decisions for himself to make his situation feel like he has some control in his life even if he is in ICU. At a time when we want to do everything for him to make sure we are doing what we can I feel it was a very important thing for us to remember that Dad is still his own man and wants to be independent. Maria made sure that we recognize that Dad needs to feel in control of little things when so much of his abilities are gone.
Also, her stories of being able to drive a team of horses made all of us happy because of our families' link to agriculture also. She was truly amazing in every contact with us and my father. We cannot thank you enough for having such wonderful staff to care for our father.