I had to rush my son to the ER right after Christmas. He was terrified (and I wasn't much better). We were provided a room and Kathy-Ann was his nurse until we moved to surgery. She deserves to be recognized for so many reasons!

First, she was an excellent nurse. She provided wonderful care and helped guide us through what was going on. Next, she was so gentle with my son. She spoke to him with great kindness. She was a calming voice and a comforting personality on a turbulent morning. She even conversed with him regarding his choice of a movie, The Sandlot, which allowed him to feel ok for a few minutes.

Finally, and most importantly, she truly cared for my son and my family. She explained everything (to him and us) she needed to do to help him, especially putting in the IV which initially caused him to panic. She comforted him when he was torn apart by the news (emergency surgery). She helped wipe away his tears. She cared for him as if he was her own. That type of compassion is rare and was invaluable to him/us. She also comforted my wife and me when we had to face this scary turn of events. She related to us as parents and reassured us. This amazing bedside manner is appreciated more than she will ever know. As you can see, Kathy-Ann deserves this award because she perfectly exemplifies why we have the award: care and compassion shown to the patient and his entire family. I want to nominate her because I, too, feel compelled to say "thank you" in a very public way.