Cristina Knapp, RN

Dear University Hospitals, I hope you know what an extraordinary asset you have in Lake West: ICU nurse Cris Knapp. I had the fortunate yet heartbreaking opportunity to meet Cris while my father-in-law spent his final five days in the ICU. She cared for him on two of those days, and although I am not qualified to speak to the medical care she provided, I can confidently speak to the incredible compassion, kindness, and humanity she showed to every member of our family.

From the moment she walked into the room, Cris made us all feel seen, heard, and cared for. She took the time to truly listen not only to our concerns, but also to the countless stories we shared about my father-in-law. When he was still lucid, she didn’t simply speak to him as a patient; she spoke with him as a person. She listened to his stories, laughed at his jokes, and treated him with dignity and respect that meant more to us than words can express.

Throughout those difficult days, Cris became so much more than our nurse. She celebrated small victories with us, shared in moments of laughter, and when our hope turned to grief, she cried alongside us. Her empathy was genuine, her kindness was effortless, and her presence brought comfort during one of the most difficult experiences our family has endured. When it was time to say goodbye to my father-in-law, Cris didn’t simply offer routine condolences. She embraced us with heartfelt hugs, shared in our sorrow, and reminded us that we were not alone. Those acts of compassion will stay with our family forever.

Excellent medical care is, of course, the foundation of nursing, and I have no doubt Cris provides that every day. But what truly sets her apart is something you can't teach in a classroom or learn from a textbook. She has a remarkable gift for connecting with people during their most vulnerable moments. She leads with compassion, empathy, and love, and that makes all the difference. The world, and especially healthcare, needs more people like Cris Knapp. She is an exceptional nurse, an extraordinary human being, and a true reflection of the very best of University Hospitals.

Please extend our deepest gratitude to Cris for the comfort, dignity, and compassion she gave not only to my father-in-law but to our entire family. We will never forget her kindness, and we will always be grateful that she was part of our journey.