I was admitted for bilateral pulmonary embolisms following a hysterectomy and later developed a clot in the right atrium of my heart. While awaiting transfer to another hospital for several days due to availability and insurance challenges, I was cared for by Andrea, my night shift nurse.

Andrea provided comfort and reassurance during an incredibly frightening time. She sat with me at 2:30 a.m. when I could not sleep, listened to my concerns, and helped ease my fear with compassion and calm.

On my second night with Andrea, she asked about my faith and, with my permission, shared my name with her son and his church so they could pray for me.

Nurses like Andrea deserve recognition not only for their clinical excellence, but also for the extraordinary compassion and empathy they show their patients.

I will forever be grateful for the care Andrea provided and believe she is truly deserving of this award.