I have been a patient for 18 surgeries and numerous other stays. Because of the exposure I've had in hospitals, it is a great honor for me to nominate an extraordinary nurse who is compassionate and an expert in the nursing profession. Going above and beyond for his patients is what Vladimir does. Vladimir looks out for his patients! His smile was the first part of my day and the most consistent part of my day. He smiled every single time he saw me! His smile warmed my heart knowing my nurse was there for me. His smile conveyed warmth, caring, and a generous abundance of friendship. I could ask him anything and he would answer me. I was crying with pain, and he would put his hand on my shoulder and speak words of comfort. That small gesture meant the world to me. There is so much I could say about him but suffice it with this: as stressful as his job is, and as much as he gets beaten down by some patients, he will ALWAYS stand firm in his belief that he is making a difference in a lot of lives. He sure did in mine. Good luck in all your endeavors! Remember, a genuine smile can melt the frost off the coldest person!