Lauryn Kobbe, RN

Our loved one passed away. During his last moments, he gushed about how amazing Lauryn was. He loved to chat with everyone and could be quite a talker. When Lauryn had downtime, she would take her computer into his room and chat with him as she worked. This meant the world to him and was a bright light in an otherwise grim situation. It doesn't get much more patient-centered than that.

Lauryn is also the definition of a compassionate communicator. At this point, he could get easily confused. Not only was she caring and patient, ensuring that he understood everything that was going on, but she also made sure we felt heard and understood what was going on. We never felt rushed or that we were a bother.

On top of this, he needed to make the decision between treatment, hospice, or comfort care. She was the biggest patient advocate in every way possible. She made sure he knew his options, what they meant, and that it was his choice to make. Not only did she double-check his important decision, but we all felt at peace knowing he was able to go out on his own terms. She made sure of that.

She cared for both him and us during his last moments, and we couldn't have asked for anything more. By the time we left, it felt like she was one of the family.

Guthrie is lucky to have her, and she absolutely deserves this award.