Karl Haakonsen was nominated by a family with whom he shared his tremendous capacity for compassion and empathy during a difficult time in their lives. Their loved one was admitted to Beverly Hospital with what they thought was a minor infection but turned out to be far more serious. His condition deteriorated rapidly, and he died five days after his admission.
They wrote:
As we held onto one another crying, Karl wrapped his big arms around us and hugged us together and then individually. The simple act of hugging and consoling us meant so much to us. We had never met a more caring or compassionate nurse. He provided comfort where there was pain, courage where there was fear, hope where there was despair, acceptance when the end neared, and, above all, a gentle touch with tenderness, patience and love. We often think about Karl. Although we still grieve, the kindness and warmth that he shared with us eases our pain. He is a true credit to the nursing profession and one of the finest nurses we have ever met.