I first met Lupe last winter while we were floating from our unit to help with the COVID surge. She was working in her previous unit, the ICU, at that time, but I worked with her several times while I was floating. I remember being very impressed with her professionalism and compassion for her patients despite being overworked and carrying a higher patient load with higher acuity. She consistently went over and above what was expected of her. She worked extra hours and was always willing to help out. The unit wasn’t well-stocked or organized, but she worked with what she had and utilized her resources effectively.

When I offered to help her with her tasks, she was always appreciative, and patient if I had questions. When I heard that she was applying to be on my unit, I told my supervisor and manager of my experiences working with her, and how much of an asset she would be to our team. Fortunately, she was hired on to the Peri-Operative Services and has demonstrated the same fantastic work ethic. She provides excellent and compassionate care to every patient. She is always there to help and support our team. We are extremely fortunate to have her with us and working a shift with her always makes my day better. I believe she is the perfect example of what this Award stands for.