I am a student, and I am grateful for having Ms. Debbie as my preceptor through my 400-hour clinical rotation. Debbie has shown me her passion and diligence, which I should mirror as a future nurse. Ms. Debbie is knowledgeable and humble. She taught me with her enthusiasm. At work, when any staff members have any questions, Ms. Debbie is always the number one to go to. She makes sure the right answer has a rationale behind it. 

I have followed a lot of preceptors during my school rotations, but no one can compare with Ms. Debbie. She really speaks up for patients and their family members. My favorite moment was watching Ms. Debbie giving patient teaching to her patient. Her eyes were sparkling, her voice warm and touching. She talked to the patient as if she was their family member. She uses language that was suitable to a patient's understanding.

I have learned advocacy from Ms. Debbie. She never hesitated to call the doctor and was ready to fight for what she thought was right and safe for her patient. 

Ms. Debbie showed me that a simple hug or hand rub can make powerful magic for a patient. She told me that it doesn't matter whether a patient is conscious or unconscious—make sure you talk to them because she believes they are still there. I look at Ms. Debbie as more than just a preceptor. She is my mentor, someone I admire, and someone I should use as a goal for my nursing career.

I don't know a lot of people in the facility, but I think everyone I've met here are true workers that all love and care for their patients. I'm writing this with the hope that Ms. Debbie will receive this award because of her silent hard work and her big heart for patient care and our veterans.