June 2026 Honoree
Makayla J Ortiz, RN
My daughter was admitted to Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in critical condition. Our family had just come from the PICU, and we were experiencing the highest level of stress and fear we have ever felt. When we transitioned to the step-down unit (Level 7), we were already grateful for the care, but the days that Makayla was our nurse truly stood out.
Makayla had such a calm, comforting presence that immediately put both my daughter and me at ease. During a time when everything felt overwhelming—constant tests, new information, and so many people coming in and out—she had a way of bringing my daughter's spirits back up every single time. She connected with her in such a genuine, personal way.
She brought out “Buzzy Beez” to help with lab draws, got creative when giving medications, and always took the time to ask about the new bunny that she picked out from the gift shop. These may seem like small things, but in those moments, they meant everything to us.
What stood out most was how natural and sincere her care felt. It never felt like she was just doing her job—she truly cared. She made my daughter laugh, helped her feel safe, and turned such a scary experience into something that had moments of comfort and even joy.
The day we were told we would be discharged, I remember hoping Makayla would be our nurse—and when I saw that she was, I felt an immediate sense of relief and happiness. That alone speaks volumes about the impact she had on our family. I cannot thank her enough for the compassion, kindness, and genuine care she showed our daughter.
She made our daughter’s hospital stay as peaceful and positive as possible during one of the hardest times of our lives. She is everything a nurse should be, and we are forever grateful for her.
Makayla had such a calm, comforting presence that immediately put both my daughter and me at ease. During a time when everything felt overwhelming—constant tests, new information, and so many people coming in and out—she had a way of bringing my daughter's spirits back up every single time. She connected with her in such a genuine, personal way.
She brought out “Buzzy Beez” to help with lab draws, got creative when giving medications, and always took the time to ask about the new bunny that she picked out from the gift shop. These may seem like small things, but in those moments, they meant everything to us.
What stood out most was how natural and sincere her care felt. It never felt like she was just doing her job—she truly cared. She made my daughter laugh, helped her feel safe, and turned such a scary experience into something that had moments of comfort and even joy.
The day we were told we would be discharged, I remember hoping Makayla would be our nurse—and when I saw that she was, I felt an immediate sense of relief and happiness. That alone speaks volumes about the impact she had on our family. I cannot thank her enough for the compassion, kindness, and genuine care she showed our daughter.
She made our daughter’s hospital stay as peaceful and positive as possible during one of the hardest times of our lives. She is everything a nurse should be, and we are forever grateful for her.
Thank you, Makayla J, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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