I am a 43-year-old who suffered a spinal cord injury. I am paralyzed from the waist down. My time at Craig has been wonderful and extremely difficult; you could say it's been a roller coaster ride every day. Karissa has been my rock during my stay. She has made sure I received the utmost care while encouraging me every night she is with me. She is the nurse who is jumping in to help the tech with nightly programs, showers, and getting clothes and supplies ready for the next day.

Karissa has held me more than once as I cried with frustration and exhaustion, reminding me of the good and helping me solve the issues of doing my everyday care independently. One night, after a really long, not-so-great day, I jokingly told her I needed a bedtime story. I have now had a bedtime story every night she has had the chance!

Karissa is caring, compassionate, and understands just how hard it is to be in the shoes of a spinal cord patient. It doesn’t matter if Karissa has six patients all wanting something at once. She makes sure they all get the attention and the care they deserve and need. Karissa is a terrific nurse and now a friend. I am forever grateful.