I had the honor of having an RN by the name of Ani when I came to the SOTU floor. I have been in several hospitals and having several nurses over the years, but none like Ani. She is extraordinary in her personal skills, as well as in her clinical skills, and this was very reassuring.

Firstly, I wanted to address my coming to the hospital was quite the Christmas miracle. I received the call after being on a waitlist for about a year, that I was to receive a Kidney. Receiving it was a bittersweet experience because as I was having my miracle, it, unfortunately, created such heartache for another family, but nonetheless, I was grateful to have this blessing. Especially for the thought that someone was considerate to believe another's life could be honored through donation. My family and I are forever grateful for them and this gift they gave.

During my hospital experience, at times, it could be overwhelming, and unfortunately, I did end up having two stays back to back because my kidney was called a "sleepy kidney," causing extra observations and dialysis to ensure everything was going in the right direction. So, over the course of two weeks, Ani was my nurse several times, and believe me, I felt my heart at rest when she was around. Her presence provided me with peace of mind because of her constant reassurance and compassionate heart. In addition to her sharp clinical mind, she made me feel at ease with her intelligence. Ani always had a welcoming heart, a kind word to say, and a watchful eye for me with all of my cares.

The Kidney experience was wonderful and I had so many great individuals on my team, but Ani stuck out above the rest, because of her loving spirit and her "above and beyond attitude". I am not able to fully describe all the words to capture this amazing individual, but she was an angel and was an extra bonus to my already-given Christmas miracle.

Something that stuck out about Ani above others is she never let on she had others to care for, she always said, " I have the time" and did the extra. For one example, I was lacking in my fluid intake, and she created a challenge where she and I could do a fluid intake together, and we made goals for each other to drink before she left at the end of her shift. Even when she was not my nurse for the day but was the lead nurse, she made sure to step in and check by asking, "How far did you get, P?" referencing my fluid intake. There were many laughs, smiles, and tears shared together. However, Ani was my constant reminder that "everything is going to be all right," and her positive emphasis made me feel at peace in my care; even when I was having struggling thoughts, it was still peaceful. I could rave on and on about Ani, but I could not think of anyone more deserving of this award because she is this award. Ani is someone you want to keep on your team, she is a rare gem, and light on dark days. UNMC is richly blessed to have an Extraordinary Nurse, such as Ani, to provide compassionate love and care at their facility.

Thank you Ani for your amazing heart, keep doing great things, and may your life continue to be richly blessed.