Emma Kraklau
September 2025
Emma
Kraklau
,
RN
ICU
Corewell Health Lakeland
Saint Joseph
,
MI
United States

 

 

 

Her compassion and strength brought comfort to us when we needed it most.
Our beloved friend, brother, son, cousin, boyfriend, and nephew—just 30 years old—was admitted after suffering a traumatic brain injury at work. When he was pronounced brain dead, we remained by his side as we awaited organ retrieval surgery.

During this incredibly difficult time, Emma was one of the nurses caring not only for him but also for our entire family. Her compassion and strength brought comfort to us when we needed it most. Emma’s warmth and kindness were evident in every interaction. She consistently kept us informed, explaining what was happening with our loved one and what the medical team was doing.

Emma made sure to check in on us, asking if we needed anything and even lightening the atmosphere by sharing a joke or two when we needed a smile. Her genuine care and ability to connect with us went far beyond what we expected, and we are truly grateful that she was our boy’s nurse during such a heartbreaking experience.