Recently, we reached out to thousands of nurses around the country with a simple request: Share a story of a nurse you’d like to honor. Who brightens your shift? Who makes you feel like you struck the coworker jackpot? As we celebrate the start of spring, we wanted to share some of the most heartwarming nominations from your nursing peers.
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Deserving so much more than flowers
“I was always taught to give people their flowers while they were still with us and Deb is deserving of so much more than flowers. She helps keep our wacky work crew sane. I want to thank her for all she has done and wish her the best on her new endeavors as well as show just how much I appreciate her.”
- Frances Stevens nominating Debra Minor
She sets the bar high
“Emilissa Rolon embodies the spirit of nursing and professionalism. She makes every day a great day, no matter what happens. She always knows exactly what is needed for any situation. [Emilissa] sets the bar high by making “above-and-beyond” her regular standard. She is the nurse that others wish they could be, the coworker everyone wants to work besides, and the doting, lifesaving caregiver that every patient wants to have. She is truly the brightest light in my day.”
- Leah Painton nominating Emilissa Rolon
The ideal co-worker and friend
“From the first day she started working in our department I noticed she had a very sunny disposition, a great sense of humor, and was willing to help others. She is always positive and has great energy. [Warren] is fun and easy-going, but what I like the most about her is that she is very giving. She helped me create and organize a new worklist that has helped me complete my work assignments in less time, making me more efficient. She is compassionate and understanding. [Warren] is the ideal co-worker and friend.”
- Elizabeth Ramirez nominating Warren Bunuan
Going above and beyond
“Cara goes above and beyond for our unit. She comes in on her own time to organize our unit and do other tasks that she can’t do while on shift. She does whatever she can to help the unit run as smoothly as possible.”
- Stacie Haack nominating Cara Rodriguez
A role model for the whole medical team
“Patricia was my charge nurse during the 2022 COVID-19 pandemic. She taught me many skills and cared for all the patients. A role model for the medical team, she is thoroughly passionate about her work as an RN. Her patients come from all walks of life, and her warm approach makes them relaxed and confident that they’re in the best hands for optimal care outcomes.
Patricia also loves family time and welcomes her friends without hesitation. She and I always check in on each other’s well-being. If you are one of Patricia’s patients, you will feel safe and well-cared for, which will have a positive impact well beyond your stay. Her motivation when treating each patient will support them during the ups and downs of their life.”
- Susanna Calt nominating Patricia Wright
Related podcast: Nursing Personality Traits: Thriving in Diverse Nursing Specialties
A big heart
“Shirley is a school nurse in Katy ISD, Katy Texas. She works tirelessly to take care of her 3000+ students and rarely, if ever, takes a day off for herself. Recently, she suddenly found herself responsible for both clinics in the massive school when the other RN resigned. She works out of two clinics in the building, trying to make sure every student receives the care and understanding that they need.
Over the years, she has worked as an elementary school nurse, floating nurse for the district covering a large block of schools, and a mentor to many new employees. Shirley does all this with a big heart. She truly cares about all of her students and lets them know they are all important.
I’ve subbed for Shirley and get to see firsthand what she deals with daily. She has been doing this for decades in the school district. I can’t think of anyone better to nominate for this honor than Shirley Willett, RN Katy ISD.”
- Beth Watkins nominating Shirley Willett
An asset to the FDNY WTC program
“It is my pleasure to nominate Karen Cerise for her outstanding performance each day as office manager for FDNY World Trade Center Program. She is a valuable asset to the FDNY WTC program. First and foremost, she is dedicated and hard-working. She is extremely organized and committed to constantly learning and developing best practices for the department. She goes beyond her job role to make sure the 9/11 heroes get the best care, respect, and services they deserve. Our clients are elderly, and she has patience and respect for each member. She has kind heart which the best quality anyone can have caring for our 9/11 heroes.”
- Meg McCormick nominating Karen Cerise
Pleasant, friendly, helpful, and amazing
“She is terrific! I came from a two-person nursing office where the other nurse caused an extremely hostile work environment. Then I came to this office. Sue and I get along famously. She is pleasant, friendly, helpful and amazing. Though she has faced a lot of hardship in her life, she’s overcome them and is still so loving and happy. We truly work as a team. She brightens my day every time I walk into our office.”
- Cheryl Wilson nominating Sue Moor
He brings peace and joy to the floor
“Jaime is my unit’s charge nurse. He is always available to help anyone in need. Jaime always has a smile on his face and brings peace and joy to the floor. He is so kind to the patients and staff and he always gives grace to others. Jaime goes above and beyond.”
- Nicole Mares nominating Jaime Villarreal
Compassion and love
“[Graceson] goes above and beyond for his clients. He never addresses them as patients or clients; instead, he calls them ‘loved ones.’ He has them close to his heart and is always ready for them every second. Whether it rains or snows, whether it’s light or dark, he’s always there to hold their hands when they pass on.”
- Betcy George nominating Graceson George
