At one of the very darkest times in my family’s lives, one nurse made such a difference: Rachel Kuntz. My mother suffered a massive brain injury and was sent to the NICU at MU, two hours away from our home. After removing her breathing tube, Rachel was there to help us navigate her final hours with us. Rachel not only took care of every one of Mom’s needs, but she also worked tirelessly to meet our needs as well.

Every question, request, and emotion was met with the greatest tenderness and care of Nurse Rachel. One of the most precious moments in that hospital room was watching Rachel lovingly wash and comb Mom’s hair while my sister and I each held Mom’s hands.  When I look back on this very tragic, life-changing event, part of my memory will be of the loving care my Mom was given in her final hours, and that was thanks to the caring hands and kind heart of Rachel Kuntz.