Amy, from the PICU, has been a nurse here for more than 15 years and has received many accolades during her tenure. She was nominated by Jackie Nelson, MA, RN, NEA-BC, CWS AD. The grandparents of a baby with congenital heart problems completed the nomination for Amy, which read:

I wanted to write you with regards to my infant grandson who had open heart surgery at your hospital. You can only imagine the anxiety that our family has gone through, particularly his parents. I drove to Iowa City to be with them during this rough time and was with them most of last week. I was nothing but impressed by your facilities and entire medical team.

I am writing today in particular to recognize the one nurse whom I believe was like an angel, at the right place, at the right time. Just days after the baby's surgery, blood tests revealed kidney issues. This was such a blow to our family; first the heart surgery, now kidney problems? When the 3 of us arrived at the hospital early one morning, Nurse Hogue was just getting ready to end her night shift. She took the time to explain to us that she had checked my grandson's catheter, found crystals and slight blockage there and had changed out the catheter. His kidney issues went away and I know it's thanks to Nurse Hogue taking the actions she did that night. She was so kind, so loving, I just had to write and let you know how appreciative my entire family is for her dedication and care. Please make sure you let her know how grateful we are for all she did to help our little one on his road to recovery.

He has now been moved out of Intensive Care and is expected to be released from the hospital in a few days. I know we will never forget everything the University of Iowa Hospital did for my grandson - and for us! Thank you, thank you.