Nurse Manju RN was assigned to me by the charge nurse, who knew that an experienced nurse was necessary for me and not just a nurse in training. I know Parkland is a training hospital, and techs and beginners rotate through the floors. Manju had a calm, professional demeanor. She gave me hope and compassion. I had been there for the last six days and was tired and worried. She helped me to relax and trust her. She showed compassion towards me. I was alone with no family or friends visiting me. She told me that she cared. I got well, and she said that this medicine works. She told me about her time at Parkland Hospital and that she rotates through the floors. She told me what she was doing before she did it. Now it's time for my eye drops, and I feel safe with Manju. She told me to try to sleep.

I use a CPAP for sleep apnea. I had a lot of wires all around me, and she brought me crackers and juice. She was generous and kind. I told her about my granddaughter and my daughter. I told her my daughter was a doctor who graduated from UT SW Medical School. She listened to me and paid attention to my worries. I told her that I had another daughter who was a lawyer, but I did not think she would visit me.

Manju's outstanding traits are compassion and professionalism. She was able to do her work and administer medication according to the doctors’ orders. She read my chart carefully. She told me, "I'm right here you; try to sleep." I felt comfortable and confident that I would get well with such a great nurse by my side. She told me she had worked at other hospitals, too. She was humble and so nice. Even if she doesn't get recognition, she will continue to serve the patients. She does not work for recognition. Nursing is her vocation.

There is a difference in care between the nurses who went to nursing school, got their licenses, and took the exam and those nurses who followed their vocation and calling. Nurse Manju is a nurse who is well above others. It will be wonderful for her to receive this award. She will be surprised. Thank you for the opportunity to tell you about her compassion, kindness, leadership, integrity, respect, and humility.