Ana consistently exemplifies the kind of nurse every patient and team member hopes for. She forms deep, meaningful connections with her patients and always goes the extra mile to make others feel seen and appreciated. Whether it’s making sure every team member receives a signed birthday card or quietly lifting up those around her, Ana brings a rare kind of intentional kindness to everything she does.

Recently, Ana cared for a patient whose wife was overwhelmed, forgetful, and visibly distressed throughout the hospitalization. The situation involved multiple providers, patient advocacy, and risk management, as communication with the wife was often strained and confusing. Despite the complexity, Ana did not shy away; she leaned in. She took the time to sit with the wife, listen beyond the words, and understand what was truly going on. Ana discovered that the wife was emotionally fragile, struggling to process the severity of her husband’s condition, and unable to retain important information. Ana showed immense patience and empathy, and instead of escalating frustrations, she brought in a chaplain and gently guided the wife through the emotional fog.

With Ana’s compassionate support, the wife found the strength to make the heartbreaking decision to change her husband’s code status to DNR. This marked the beginning of her grieving and healing process. Ana’s presence in this family’s life made all the difference. Her ability to hold space for someone else’s pain, to truly see and understand them in the middle of a crisis, is the very essence of what this award represents. Ana is a light in our unit, and we are grateful every day for the way she cares for her patients, their families, and all of us who work beside her.