Tonya is one of the most caring and thoughtful individuals and nurses I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. Tonya is constantly going above and beyond, not only for her patients but also for the parents and staff (including buying tea for everyone when they are having a bad day). Tonya is currently the primary nurse of a very sick former 22-week-old infant. Tonya has been very attentive and caring to the parents' and infant's every need. I don’t know if the family has ever gotten to hold the baby due to how sick he is, but Tonya safely made it happen.

The baby’s bed was due to be changed, and prior to changing it out, she coordinated with other RNs and RTs to help get the infant out of bed into the father’s hands. This infant only weighs 800 grams (less than two pounds). While she was changing out the bed, the father was able to perform skin-to-skin with his son while holding and kissing him. Everyone was crying, including the dad, RT, Tonya, and me! It was such a special moment. Tonya then changed out the bed and safely put the baby back into the bed. Tonya found a very creative way to create such a special moment for this family. She inspires me every single day, and she has a lasting impact on every patient and family she interacts with.