My name is Mark and I have been a guest of Meriter Hospital on many different occasions during the past 10 years or more. I have coronary artery disease.

During my many visits to the cath lab, I have developed a special relationship with one technician in particular. Her name is Nicole (I’m sorry but at this time I don't know her last name). This lady is very special.

She remembers my family and my grandson “the Moose” and never forgets to ask how they are doing.

After each procedure I have had, she rewards me for being a good boy, with a Tootsie-Pop! One time I couldn’t decide if I needed a red one or a purple one, so she gave me both!

A couple of months ago (March) I had a heart attack on a Sunday afternoon, and Nicole was not working.

After the procedure was over and it was time for my Tootsie-Pops, I was informed that there were no suckers in the Cath Lab anymore. If this is a budget cutback, I would suggest the Tootsie-Pops be reinstated (they are great for a dry mouth)! I was broken-hearted (Get it? Ha!)!

Nicole came to work on Monday and saw my name on the procedure sheet from the day before and came all the way up to the eleventh floor to visit me and guess what? She had a red and a purple Tootsie-Pop for me! I love this woman!

The point is, in this day and age when things are becoming so impersonal, people like Nicole let you know that somebody out there really cares!

Thank you, Nicole! I feel better, knowing that you are there.

Thanks to all the people who do such a great job of taking care of me:  the staff in the E.R., everyone in the cath lab, the doctors of Wisconsin Heart & Vascular Institute and the outstanding group of professionals on the eleventh floor (you guys are the greatest).

My name is Mark, and that is only one of my Meriter Stories.