From Dr. Wilkerson:
I am nominating Kristen Velasquez because she went above and beyond. Kristen was caring for a very sick elderly woman with advanced cancer. Despite recommendations from multiple physicians, the family for many weeks was not able to come to terms with the patient's terminal diagnosis and would not consider hospice. It was very uncomfortable for all caregivers who were watching this patient suffer. Kristen was able to bond with the family over the many weeks she was caring for the patient. On Thanksgiving, the patient was becoming progressively more distressed. Kristen expeditiously arranged a tour of Lawliss Hospice and a discussion with the hospice manager. She accompanied the family on the tour to provide emotional support and help answer questions. The family agreed to transfer to Lawliss. Lawliss could not accommodate a transfer that same day, and it therefore was arranged for the next day. Kristen came in on her day off on her own time to assist the family and patient with this transition. She truly exemplifies caring for the whole person and the whole family.

From Patient: I underwent a robotic colon resection that was much more major than I had expected. Kristen provided my care for the two post-op days. She is extremely hard-working, intelligent, and empathetic. An excellent nurse who is also personal and caring. Any request was delivered and many times she went out of her way and exceeded expectations. I am a retired OBGYN physician and have worked with many nurses. She is one of the very best. I really appreciate and thank her for her excellent nursing care. I hope that I see her on the outside.