Our third son was born in April 2022 and was in the NICU. It was completely new territory. We clicked with Karen right away. Not only did she provide excellent care for our boy, but she also took care of our worried parents' hearts. She listened to what we had to say, and she trusted us as his parents. We always felt he was cared for so well, and we always felt so heard by her. She supported us in the medical decisions we had to make for him and helped us to feel confident. When we left the hospital, we knew we had made a friend for life! Our friendship continued over the next few years, and by 2025, I was pregnant with our fourth son.

We chatted all through the pregnancy, and she was such a support. He was born in September 2025 and, unfortunately, also ended up in the NICU. She became his primary nurse. Having a child in the NICU is a hard road, but knowing that he was in her care took so much of the worry away from us. She really understands that pediatrics is not just the patient, it's the whole family. She again took amazing care of our boy and of our weary hearts. Now, fast forward to August 2025, and we are in the midst of an 11-day hospital stay in peds. She was the first person to come visit on our first day here, after a long shift. Though she isn't his nurse, she has listened to my worries and frustrations, provided an ear, offered support, and been there with a hug. Just knowing she's just a floor away is such a comfort. I meant to nominate her for the DAISY Award when my 3rd son was born, but I didn't. It was the same with my 4th son. But now is finally the time! Karen is a skilled nurse with the most impeccable bedside manner and is a truly wonderful human.