Kimmy touches everyone she works with, from patients to coworkers. I observed Kimmy demonstrate the most tender, loving care to a frightened patient, which was humbling to behold. Nothing was diverting her attention from this patient. She gave them time, attention, eye contact, touch, and a generosity of spirit that calmed and reassured this patient.

She conveyed these concerns to the involved staff, including the circulating nurse to whom she gave report, the anesthesiologist, and the surgeon. She offered other care enhancements to provide a positive experience that was on the "care enhancement menu" that she worked on as part of her care experience unit practice council work. She coordinated obtaining the weighted blanket for this patient to utilize in the preoperative area. Ordinarily, we provide this to the patient upon arrival to the OR, but Kimmy felt the patient would benefit, and she was correct.

Kimmy has also, in the past year, renewed her RN 3 status, become board certified in ambulatory care, and is nearly finished with her BSN. She has furthered her nursing practice by attending Caritas events and Heart Math. She brought the heart math principles to a staff meeting, educating us and leading us in guided meditation and deep breathing group exercise. When she is here, evidence-based music choices are played regularly to create a healing and peaceful environment.

She cares for her patients deeply and with commitment. She reminds us all of our obligation to care for ourselves in order to better serve our patients. She listens fully and cares about our responses as coworkers. Eye surgery staff and patients benefit tremendously from Kimmy's expertise and her genuine kindness.

Thank you for all you do, Kimmy!