Mike had a 91-year-old patient, J, who had bad lungs and was on a Venti mask. Mike noticed that J never had visitors even though he was the father of five children. Mike took extra time to sit with J and talk with him on several occasions. J shared his life story with Mike and told him that at 10 years old he would listen to the radio and taught himself how to play the piano. J told Mike he lives at a nursing home and plays piano for the residents.
The following week, J was able to get weaned off the Venti mask. Mike, who was not assigned to J that day, went to see him and asked him if he wanted to play the piano. J smiled and said, "Oh yes." Mike got an oxygen tank and wheelchair, then took J down to the main lobby to play the piano. J was so happy. People were taking pictures and clapping for him. Mike went above and beyond to make J's day. We are so proud to work with Mike.
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When sadness enters your life, it is wonderful when you see kindness and a loving heart of someone. This person was Mike. Today I saw a 'light'. Music is important to me; it has so many memories. As I was having my small cup of coffee in the lobby today, I saw Mike pushing this handsome, elderly gentleman with a smile on his face while pulling an oxygen tank. He told me he wants to play the piano, and he plays at American House where he is a resident. He has been playing since he was 10 years old; he is now 91, bless him. Mike said he has not had many visitors, and he took care of him on the weekend.
When J started to play, it brought tears to my eyes. He played the music my dad would play. Everyone in the lobby was clapping for him. J was so happy, big smile…played about 20 minutes. I was so impressed - wonderful. Thank you,Mike, for brightening my day!
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Sadly, when we called American House to invite Joe to be here today, we learned that he has since past away. Knowing that one of our nurses went above and beyond to make what turned out to be one of Joe's final days so happy makes us all proud.