Melissa Taylor is a nurse who challenges herself daily and sets an amazing example for those around her. In the PICU, she's cared for some of the most challenging cases— medically complex cases, non-accidental traumas, rule-out Ebola patients, to name just a few—and on her "off" days she volunteers as a member of the Army Reserve. Families and patients consistently report she is compassionate, calm, supportive, provides expert care and has a great sense of humor that gets them through long days in the PICU.
She never turns down an opportunity to help. She is a trained preceptor, a charge nurse, and a special isolation team member. She is able to form a special bond with just about anyone, and I don't think "no" is in her vocabulary. She recently volunteered for the wound and skin team—a plan that was interrupted by her being called to active duty this month to support Operation Enduring Freedom.
Her colleagues, from all disciplines, say she always "has everyone's back," and she looks out for her colleagues, patients, and families. The time has come for Children's National to share her skills and leadership abilities more broadly with the rest of the nation, but we look forward to welcoming her back next year. Thank you for all you do, Taylor.