I was admitted into Cooper from a MVA with a fracture in L3 and L4, a broken jaw & left elbow. In terms I could understand, I was completely broken and had a long road of recovery ahead of me. Not to mention, the world was in the middle of a pandemic, so one visitor could come to see me once a day and was limited to just a few hours. Not being able to get up, feed myself, provide myself with basic hygiene, or move much at all, not having my people there for me to help or support me quickly kicked me into a bad place mentally since we were in the middle of COVID. Any person or bystander could tell the Nurses had so much work to do even twelve hour shifts left some pages unturned although the pressure was on, the Nurses were handling their business with a smile. If I had two operational arms I'd be clapping nonstop.

I had originally written that first page while still sporting that infamous gown. It is now August of the same year 2021 and I reread my words and reflect on the state of mind, or lack thereof, I was in. Finally, five months later, I am able to go back to work, though I often remember what a once active, playful and painless life I used to have. I’ve been diagnosed with PTSD and recurrent major depressive disorder since that first page. Being around a number of patients in the same mood I was in must have been so daunting on a good mood. You would never know the amount of negativity Katelyn Backus witnessed in my room. Keeping my chin up was so much easier with Katelyn in my corner. She gave me much-needed reminders on how I walked away with my life and the ability to watch my daughters grow up. This made only being able to see them on FaceTime that much easier. I was going to come home to my babies…..yes. Even though she witnessed me in my worst light, Katelyn saw me and knew she was what I needed.

I feel privileged to have met Katelyn. She is such a special and kindhearted person. I wholeheartedly understand why my dad keeps a list of nurses' names in his wallet at all times. They were his rock, they were his Katelyn. They kept his eye on the prize- being well enough to get back to me. Now, Ms. Backus is the reason I did the same for his granddaughters.

Thank you Katelyn, for a sense of security in the most traumatic part of my life, the compassion you showed throughout, and the time you spent helping me make sense out of it. I promise to think of you often and radiate the kindness you showed me to others as often as I can. You belong in this line of work and you deserve this award. With much, much love.