Mercy Hospital Fort Smith has dedicated a wall in the Women's Center to memorialize newborns. I would like to thank and formally recognize two of our NICU nurses, Abigail McDowell and Nikkole Frederick.

During 2023 we experienced neonatal losses. These cases are never easy for the families nor the NICU team. Abby and Nikkole demonstrated compassion and exemplified the Mercy values of Dignity and Service when they requested memorial stars for these babies. Then Abby and Nikkole independently, without prompting from leadership, contacted the families to obtain permission to schedule a time convenient for each family to place the memorial star on display. These nurses coordinated with chaplain services and the families to provide a small prayer service when the three stars were placed. The caring act of planning for such a meaningful experience for these families displays honor for these babies and families. The phone calls and care coordination were in addition to their on-shift duties. While the entire NICU team cares for these families, these two went the extra mile to ensure God's tiniest received compassionate care and exceptional service true to our mission.