During my husband’s stay in CTICU, he was blessed to have several wonderful nurses who were professional, competent, and caring. A standout among all these superstars was Stephanie. She was not only attentive and competent to all his medical needs, but her calming style, supportive words, and affirming approach made J’s stay measurably more comfortable.

In addition to his initial life threatening illness, J experienced a number of operations and amputations, infections, and other challenges that made each day an emotional cyclone. But within minutes of Stephanie taking over his care, his, and our hope and morale immediately soared. It’s difficult to put into words that adequately express how adept she was at applying her nursing skills and simultaneously seeing and validating her patient as a human in need of kindness, which she provided in abundance. She calmed him, cheered him, translated medical jargon to him, and even spoiled him with small pleasures like ice chips when he was thirsty and unable to drink.

Her kindness did not end with her patient. She also cared for the family and friends that were ever present, hovering over J and asking questions. She never lost her patience and was always flexible and supportive. We are so grateful to have had Stephanie as our nurse.