I am writing to thank, honor, and nominate the work of Anne Grutzmacher, a nurse at Cooperman Barnabas Surgical Center. She embodies excellence in her delivery of individualized, compassionate patient care and in her ability to communicate all that is needed for my sister and me to navigate the healing journey ahead.

Waiting to have a major surgery is not easy. It is a procedure that really depends on those whose way of being with others and whose very presence is about offering life-affirming connection: I want you to be OK. Anne, through her words, attention, gaze, and time to listen, personifies a clear and willing commitment to care for another and a deep empathy to understand the concerns of someone she has just met. Our time with Anne created an enduring imprint on our hearts because of her knowledge and the wisdom she has gained from experience.

We cannot thank her enough for the time she spent with us. Although, for sure, she has cultivated a field of daisies through her work with so many in her care over the years, we write to ask you to acknowledge the compassionate communication and emotional support she provides. She makes the extraordinary work of compassionate care in a surgical unit seem as effortless as breathing. Anne made an immense difference to us and deserves every recognition that reflects how valuable she is to achieving outstanding patient care.