Betty came to us a couple of years ago. At first glance, she appeared to be a small, soft-spoken woman with little ability to care for our very strong, 29-year-old, severely challenged son, Anthony. But within hours, we saw her skill come to light! She spoke to our son in a warm, encouraging manner, and she taught him how to sing, La La La. Just a few words brought a smile to his face. Twice, during her time with us, Betty has had major surgeries. But in each case, she stayed off work for a very short period of time, anxiously awaiting the moment she could get back to our son!

Betty takes excellent care of our son; posts his meds; charts every minor and major health change; organizes his supplies; calls in his meds; and straightens his bed. But more than all of those things, even though he does not speak or comprehend much, she treats our son like a person who could be her best friend! She cares for him with great tenderness and respect, and we are always assured that, though he cannot speak for himself, she is one of his greatest advocates! This nurse goes over and above the norm and should be considered for this special award!