Community Corner

Nurse 'Took Care Of My Dad As If He Was Her Father': Patch Hero

We all know someone who's making a difference in this difficult time. Let's help share these amazing stories!

Bridget Ahlfield is an ICU nurse at South Suburban Hospital.
Bridget Ahlfield is an ICU nurse at South Suburban Hospital. (Image courtesy of Lisa Conway)

FRANKFORT, IL — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Lisa Conway of Frankfort, who nominated ICU nurse Bridget Ahlfield:

Name of the nominee:
Bridget Ahlfield

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Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:
Yes

What does the nominee do for work?:

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ICU nurse at South Suburban Hospital

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?

During the last days of my dad's life, Bridget made sure we were able to interact with him via FaceTime. She made sure that he was comfortable and talked to him constantly so he wasn't lonely.

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:

Despite working six 12-hour days, Bridget made sure to take care of my dad as if he was her father. She called him "Lolo," which means grandfather, held his hand, rubbed his head and provided encouragement. We couldn't be with him, but we knew that he was in good hands. Going through the entire COVID-19 experience was horrific. Bridget reminded us that there is still good in the world.

Thank you for all you do, Bridget!


>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.

All photos included in this post are owned by identified third parties who have given Patch the right to use explicitly for the Patch Local Heroes series.

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