January 2026 Honoree
Ellen Shaw, BSN, RN, CPN
Our family was unexpectedly flown to Children’s Hospital of Colorado after my son suffered a severe asthma exacerbation that led to respiratory failure. As a former pediatric nurse myself, I thought I would be somewhat prepared, but nothing could have prepared me for the fear and helplessness I felt watching my child in such critical condition.
From the moment we walked into the PICU, there was one person who brought a sense of calm into our chaos: Ellen Shaw. Though I don’t remember much from that first day besides overwhelming fear, I do remember Ellen. Her presence was grounding. She met us with warmth, compassion, and strength. The next morning, after a nearly sleepless night, Ellen returned, and it felt like seeing an angel walk into the room. She not only cared for my son medically with great skill, but emotionally as well. She explained every step to him with patience, played with the toys he had received, and helped him find moments of peace in a frightening situation.
For me, as a terrified parent, she was just as attentive. I had several emotional breakdowns throughout that day, and Ellen was always right there to comfort and support me. In moments when I felt lost in doubt or guilt, she reassured me. When I questioned whether I was overstepping or voiced concerns, she empowered me to continue advocating for my son. Ellen treated us with the kind of grace and attentiveness that left a lasting impression. She gave us comfort in one of the darkest moments of our lives.
On our third day in the PICU, Ellen returned, and again, it felt like the sun breaking through the clouds. She told us it would be her last day with us and reassured us that the care would remain excellent after she left. And while we continued to receive good care, the absence of Ellen was deeply felt. The standard she set was unmatched, and her presence left a void that no one else could fill. There are no words strong enough to express our gratitude for Ellen. The care she provided was not only expert and professional but deeply human. She gave us hope, peace, and dignity during a time of crisis. I will never forget her, and as I return to normal life and back to work, I can only hope to model the kind of compassionate, exceptional nurse that she is. Ellen's impact on our family is immeasurable, and we are forever thankful.
From the moment we walked into the PICU, there was one person who brought a sense of calm into our chaos: Ellen Shaw. Though I don’t remember much from that first day besides overwhelming fear, I do remember Ellen. Her presence was grounding. She met us with warmth, compassion, and strength. The next morning, after a nearly sleepless night, Ellen returned, and it felt like seeing an angel walk into the room. She not only cared for my son medically with great skill, but emotionally as well. She explained every step to him with patience, played with the toys he had received, and helped him find moments of peace in a frightening situation.
For me, as a terrified parent, she was just as attentive. I had several emotional breakdowns throughout that day, and Ellen was always right there to comfort and support me. In moments when I felt lost in doubt or guilt, she reassured me. When I questioned whether I was overstepping or voiced concerns, she empowered me to continue advocating for my son. Ellen treated us with the kind of grace and attentiveness that left a lasting impression. She gave us comfort in one of the darkest moments of our lives.
On our third day in the PICU, Ellen returned, and again, it felt like the sun breaking through the clouds. She told us it would be her last day with us and reassured us that the care would remain excellent after she left. And while we continued to receive good care, the absence of Ellen was deeply felt. The standard she set was unmatched, and her presence left a void that no one else could fill. There are no words strong enough to express our gratitude for Ellen. The care she provided was not only expert and professional but deeply human. She gave us hope, peace, and dignity during a time of crisis. I will never forget her, and as I return to normal life and back to work, I can only hope to model the kind of compassionate, exceptional nurse that she is. Ellen's impact on our family is immeasurable, and we are forever thankful.
Thank you, Ellen, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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