In healthcare, every patient arrives with a need, but they also arrive with a story. At Saint Mary’s, we believe taking the time to form a personal connection with each patient can make all the difference, often leading to moments that stay with caregivers long after a visit ends.

That belief came to life recently in the Saint Mary’s Emergency Department during the care of Jock Davis, a 101-year-old World War II veteran whose life reflects a legacy of service, resilience and family. One of four brothers who all served in the United States military, his story spans more than a century of history.

During his time in the ER, staff made a point to do what they strive to do with every patient—listen, engage and see the person beyond the medical need. Through conversation, they learned about his remarkable life, his military service and his passion for preserving his family’s history.

Those personal connections led to a meaningful exchange. Davis shared a book he authored about his life and the service of his four brothers, and before leaving, he gifted a copy to emergency physician Dr. Gregory Bledsoe, MD. It was a simple gesture, but one rooted in trust, respect and genuine human connection.

For the nurses, physicians and staff who cared for him, the experience was deeply impactful. In a fast-paced emergency setting, moments like these remind caregivers why connection matters. When patients feel seen and heard, care becomes more than clinical—it becomes personal.

At Saint Mary’s, we know that every conversation has the potential to lead somewhere meaningful. Whether it’s reassurance in a stressful moment or the sharing of a life story decades in the making, personal connections are at the heart of how we care for our community—one patient at a time.