My 9-year-old daughter has been a patient here for over a week. We are here at Kaiser with a really bad case of empyema. My daughter has a chest tube, and she's a very difficult patient. Because of her pain levels, it is very challenging to get her to do the things that she needs to do to recover. This has been the darkest and scariest time of my life as a single parent. I have seen many nurses come in and out of this room, but not one nurse is as invested in the health and recovery as Nurse Christine. She takes the backlash and responds with love. She has empathy and has been extremely professional and kind. Christine sees my daughter as more than just a patient; she sees my daughter as a holistic being and addresses all of her needs and fears with patience and kindness. As a scared parent, Christine has offered so much support. I feel like my daughter is in good hands when she is with her.

No one has fought for my daughter's health as hard as this nurse has. We have had some of the darkest times here. I have never seen my daughter in this condition, but Christine has never left our side and has always shown such compassion. Encouraging my daughter to ambulate in the face of pain, for her own sake. It's very difficult for us, but this nurse comes to work and does this for us. Even when my daughter refuses and responds with backlash, this nurse continues to show compassion. I have seen many nurses and have been cared for by many nurses. This nurse is truly exceptional. I don't know how else to honor her. I'll owe her my life. This nurse and her service have been more valuable to me. Then any gold and diamonds. I submit this nomination with my whole heart and soul, and with the sincerest gratitude.

To be in a situation where I am completely out of control, it is refreshing and comforting to know that there are nurses like this nurse out there, making such a difference to our most vulnerable population and their parents. Christine takes the time to educate my daughter in a way she can understand and also explains to me in ways that are less frightening, but still very accurate. She's just comforting, even in the face of bad news. If more humans were like this nurse, this world would be such a beautiful place. Thank you so much for considering my nomination.