This content is produced by Studio/B
Produced by Studio/B
MOST POPULAR ON BOSTONGLOBE.COM
Based on what you've read recently, you might be interested in these stories
Catherine Aldrich, NeighborHealth
Catherine goes above and beyond for all of her patients. She is incredibly caring and resourceful and always advocates for people who use drugs. She has an extensive history working in psychiatric and mental health settings, which fuels her compassion and care for people in Boston who struggle with substance use disorder.
Nominated by Margaret Hale
Gabe Braz, NeighborHealth
Gabe is a very compassionate and committed nurse who knows how to take exceptional care of his patients. Gabe is that one nurse or person in life we will always remember. He is very efficient in his duties as a nurse and focuses on giving the best care to the patients.
Nominated by Jasmin Rivas
Breanna Langill, NeighborHealth, Neighborhood PACE
During the past year, Breanna has proven herself to be an excellent nurse and team player. She is intelligent and a strong advocate for our patients. She treats them with respect and empathy. She always brings a smile to her patients, even on hard days.
I had the pleasure of training her and was impressed by how fast she learned to navigate the PACE program and care for a large number of patients on her own. She is always willing to help other nurses on their busiest days.
I could say much more; however, I want to end by saying that Breanna has been an asset and a pleasure to work with.
Nominated by Ligia Martinez
Breanna listens and shows compassion and empathy toward patients’ pain and concerns. She demonstrates clinical competency and stays up to date on medical procedures, treatments, and protocols. Breanna has excellent communication skills and promotes open communication with the health care team to ensure continuity of care.
Nominated by Noelia Murillo
Valentina Lopez, NeighborHealth
I had the privilege of meeting nurse Valentina, who exemplifies the highest standards of compassion and clinical competency. Even though I am not a patient, I witnessed her deep commitment to her patients’ well-being firsthand. She makes sure everyone feels heard and respected.
Additionally, Valentina’s professionalism is evident in how she stays calm and collected during stressful situations. She is not only a strong advocate for her patients but also makes sure her voice is heard when challenges come up at work. Her strength and ability to handle pressure while still providing great care are qualities I truly admire.
I wish Valentina the best of luck as she moves forward in her career. Her dedication, kindness, and amazing skills make her an invaluable part of any team. I have no doubt that she will keep inspiring others and making a positive difference wherever she goes.
Nominated by Emely Regalado
Ligia Martinez, NeighborHealth, Neighborhood PACE
Ligia Martinez is the epitome of what it means to be a great nurse. She spends time with each and every one of her patients to make sure their needs are met on a daily basis. She has the patience of an angel and is willing to train and teach new nurses. She is always there to offer a helping hand to her team.
I admire her and feel blessed to call her my co-worker and fellow nurse. The world needs more Ligias.
Nominated by Breanna Langill
Adellys Mba, NeighborHealth, Neighborhood PACE
This geriatric nurse demonstrates compassion by treating elderly patients with patience, dignity, and respect. They took the time to listen, ease anxieties, and provide comfort, making sure each patient felt valued.
Adellys’ clinical competency was evident in their expertise in managing chronic conditions, administering medications safely, and recognizing subtle health changes. Their vigilance helped prevent complications and improve patient outcomes.
Through excellent communication, this nurse clearly explained medical information to patients and families, ensuring understanding and informed decision making. They listened actively, fostering trust and collaboration in care. By building trust, they provided consistent, reassuring care, making patients feel safe and confident in their treatment. Their reliability and kindness strengthened the nurse-patient relationship.
As a dedicated advocate, Adellys ensured patients’ needs and preferences were respected, worked with the health care team to create individualized care plans, and promoted dignity and quality of life in every aspect of care.
This nurse’s commitment to compassionate, skilled, and patient-centered care greatly enhanced the well-being of their geriatric patients.
Nominated by Melissa Carmona
Marissa Moore, NeighborHealth
Marissa is the most caring and cheerful nurse I have ever met. She lights up the room. I have had interactions with her as both the mother of a patient and as a co-worker.
My 2-year-old daughter loves Marissa. During visits, she is patient and feels comfortable with her. Marissa is an amazing pediatric nurse, and her hard work and dedication make a huge impact not only on our department but also on our community.
Nominated by Sisi Parada Mendoza
Lisa Mortell, NeighborHealth, Neighborhood PACE
Lisa is hands down one of the finest nurses I have had the privilege to work with in my nearly 20-year career. I have so many stories that demonstrate Lisa going above and beyond — like stopping at one patient’s house three times in one day to make sure they had a working glucometer and supplies after a recent hospitalization — but I want to highlight how Lisa provides exemplary care day in and day out.
Not only does she have fantastic assessment skills, but she is also a consistently excellent communicator. She always calls, pages, or texts with questions or recommendations, communicating in real time while still providing thorough and compassionate care, a huge undertaking when you consider how many patients she sees each day.
She takes the time to educate the patients and works with them to get their buy-in — not always an easy task — which improves their experience and the likelihood that they will follow through.
She can establish rapport and trust with any patient, often in a single visit. I breathe a sigh of relief when I see her name down for my patients — her level of skill, efficacy, compassion, and communication are rare qualities that we all benefit from, sometimes in big ways, but most often in the small, everyday ways that make a truly meaningful difference.
Nominated by Sarah Harding
As a home care nurse in a community-based program for medically frail individuals, Lisa is on the front line of patient care for some of my most vulnerable patients.
Whether working with an established case or a new client, Lisa’s assessment skills are clinically comprehensive and holistic. Lisa consistently provides respectful and compassionate care, meeting patients and families where they are physically and emotionally. She is a top-notch communicator, seamlessly coordinating care between the clinic and the home and advocating for the needs of her patients. I know our participants and clinicians are grateful to have her as part of our care team.
I have been fortunate enough to collaborate on many complex cases remotely as well as in person with Lisa. There are many examples of her clinical excellence over the years, and it is hard to choose just one case to highlight, so I will refer instead to her pattern of consistently high-quality care.
Home care nurses are often the unsung heroes of health care, and I salute Lisa as a shining example of one such hero.
Nominated by Nancy Seigal
Karen Romero, NeighborHealth
Karen Romero has shown exceptional dedication and made an exceptional impact in patient care. She consistently demonstrates compassion by treating each patient with kindness, empathy, and respect, making sure they feel heard and valued.
Karen’s clinical competency is evident through her precise, evidence-based practice and her ability to make sound decisions, even in high-pressure situations. Her excellent communication skills foster trust not only with patients but also with families and the broader health care team, ensuring clear, collaborative care.
She serves as a tireless advocate for patients, always prioritizing their needs and championing their well-being. Karen’s unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care makes her an outstanding nurse.
Nominated by Daniella Rodriguez
Brooke Zahine, NeighborHealth
I have worked in community health for the past eight years, and I can confidently say that Brooke is one of the most compassionate, kind, and empathetic nurses I have ever met. Since graduating from nursing school, she has flourished, demonstrating exceptional clinical competency and dedication to her patients.
I have witnessed Brooke assist patients both in person and over the phone, including with behavioral health crises, wound care, immunization catch-ups, urgent symptom triage, and social service coordination for patients in need. She embodies holistic nursing, addressing not only physical conditions but also psychosocial determinants of health. When a patient lacks transportation or requires legal assistance they cannot afford, Brooke ensures they receive the necessary resources by referring and following up until the issue is resolved.Beyond her clinical role, Brooke is a true advocate for vulnerable populations. She founded and manages the annual fundraiser and care packages for the Boston Unhoused initiative, which raised more than $2,100 last year and provided 105 care packages for unhoused individuals in Boston. Her unwavering commitment to her patients and community sets her apart. I feel incredibly fortunate to have crossed paths with her.
Nominated by Gabriel Braz
Courtney Senechal, NeighborHealth
Courtney has shown exceptional dedication to employee health. She went above and beyond to ensure I had convenient access to my flu and COVID-19 boosters, offering to come to my office on my schedule. Her flexibility eliminated the need for extra travel or outside appointments, allowing me to focus on work and family.
Courtney’s compassion, efficiency, and commitment to employee well-being make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Hollis Graham
Michelle Stimpson, NeighborHealth, Neighborhood PACE
Michelle Stimpson is exceptional for her willingness to answer untimely phone calls, even when it means adding more to her workload. She is the first “Uber nurse” in the United States, always ready with her equipment to visit patients at any time. Bravo, Michelle.
NeighborHealth is lucky to have a nurse like you — a nurse who exhibits extraordinary patience, a nurse who is trusted by all and has excellent communication skills that everyone admires. Michelle’s professionalism is evident in her caregiving tips and teamwork. Michelle represents a perfect example to emulate.
Nominated by Adellys Mba
Caitlin Allen, New England Home Health Services, Inc.
Caitlin is a home care nurse for my severely disabled son, Henry, and she is an absolute joy. She advocates for him in all aspects of his life — during their time at school, at his doctor’s appointments, and out in the community. Due to her impeccable care, Henry is able to enjoy being a 3-year-old and experience all life has to offer at home and at school.
Caitlin is a compassionate and positive light when our family needs it most, and we are so grateful for the love she shows her patients and our family.
Nominated by Meaghan Sansbury
Dawn Bosse, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Dawn works as the nurse educator at the Mass General Cancer Center at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. She works tirelessly to support both her fellow nurses and our patients.
During unexpected staffing shortages, Dawn always steps up and provides the coverage we need to ensure high-quality cancer care. She is a resource for the other nurses and, no matter what, she always has a smile on her face.
I felt it was important to recognize Dawn in Salute to Nurses because she not only cares compassionately for our patients but she also assists other nurses to make sure they have the support and education they need.
Nominated by Bill Danchanko
Danielle Carson, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Danielle formed a lasting bond with one of our oncology patients and went above and beyond to support him and his partner throughout his cancer diagnosis. Danielle ensured he had everything he needed to go home safely and provided constant support, education, and companionship, even through the end of his life.
The patient’s family was grateful for Danielle’s presence and support. Her compassion left a lasting impression not only on them but on her colleagues as well.
Nominated by Lucia Kelleher
Amanda Crowell, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Amanda is such an asset to Newton-Wellesley Hospital. As a new graduate nurse, I’m constantly reassured by her guidance as charge nurse in our intensive care unit (ICU). She is always several steps ahead of a patient’s condition and is able to prepare for the worst outcomes.
One of Amanda’s greatest qualities is how approachable she is as a charge nurse, always willing to hear out another nurse. I remember one day when I shared a concern about a patient’s condition. Amanda let me go through the whole story before telling me she wasn’t assigned as charge that day. Still, she offered advice and reassured me in my thought process.
Amanda is such a big part of the ICU because she is always thinking of others, planning birthday parties or baby showers. While she’s on leave growing her beautiful family with a beautiful baby boy, I am reminded of how much of a voice she is here, and she is greatly missed.
Nominated by Michaela Walsh
Laurie Diamond, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Where to start with the unstoppable Laurie Diamond? She is an inspiration, a compassionate and knowledgeable nurse, and a pleasure to have as a co-worker. When Laurie starts her shift, she always hits the ground running, even finding the time to clean around everyone in our hectic intensive care unit (ICU).
Laurie frequently takes on the charge nurse role and has been such an asset to new nurses, constantly reassuring them and giving them encouragement, especially after tough assignments.
She makes our ICU feel like family. She makes sure everyone gets to take their break before taking her own, volunteers to deep clean our employee refrigerator, and even shares books she’s enjoyed with staff.
Everything Laurie touches turns to pure gold. The minute she steps into a room, she lifts the energy in a way that is transformative and makes you feel at ease. I don’t mean to sound over the top, but this nurse deserves the praise!
Linda Dye, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
As a mother of four with decades of experience as an intensive care unit (ICU) nurse, Linda is the epitome of a mom to our unit. Whenever a patient becomes critical in our ICU, I’m comforted by the sound of her behind me — gathering whatever items I need or being the voice in my ear verifying what we should do next for the patient. I admire her ability to remain calm and problem-solve when a crisis arises.
As a new graduate, whenever I had a complex patient, I knew she would be the first to come to me and reassure me that I had done a great job. Linda is a pleasure to work with in our unit and exemplifies a compassionate nurse.
Janille Jeremie, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Janille consistently gives excellent nursing care to patients and families. She is very compassionate to patients and always puts them first. She builds strong rapport with patients and their families and serves as a great mediator between them and the health care team. Janille advocates for patients and families to ensure the best outcomes.
Nominated by Anjusha Thomas
Alexandra Masiello, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
With her contagious big smile, Lexie radiates positivity and caring that is felt by patients and staff alike. When a recent patient who was newly diagnosed with endometrial cancer was seen in the office, weak, lightheaded, and in pain, she requested Lexie by name, having experienced such empathy and compassion from her in the past.
Lexie stayed by her side, took the phone to calmly explain to her 80-plus-year-old brother that his sister was going to need additional medical evaluation, and even gave him directions right to the door. Our patient could not have been more complimentary or grateful for Lexie’s care.
This is just one patient and one example of how a nurse can make such an impression and meaningful difference in the life of a patient. I witnessed this professional, kind, and beyond caring interaction and am honored to say I have the privilege of working with Lexie and so many other amazing and caring nurses at Newton-Wellesley.
Nominated by Lisa Alden
Susan O’Keefe, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Susan joined our unit this year from the float pool and has been an amazing addition to our team. She builds strong connections with her patients and always goes above and beyond to advocate for them.
Recently, Susan received a call from a patient’s family member saying the cardiac medication she was supposed to start after discharge wasn’t available at her pharmacy. Susan reached out to the doctor on the patient’s behalf, called the patient’s daughter back with instructions, stressed the importance of finding this medication, and took the time to go through all of the cardiac medications with her.
The following morning, when Susan arrived for her shift, she called the patient’s daughter just to check in, confirm the medication had been secured, and ask how her mom was doing. The patient’s daughter told her she wished she could keep Susan on speed dial.
This is just one example of the competent and uniquely compassionate care that Susan provides to her patients every day.
Nancy Pelkey, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Nancy works as one of our charge nurses on the night shift and is highly respected and praised by all her colleagues. Nancy goes above and beyond to round on her peers, check in with patients, and ensure that all nurses on the floor feel supported.
Nancy always has the best interests of the patients on the unit at heart and is a fierce advocate for patient safety. She is seen by the newer nurses as the mom of the floor for truly taking them under her wing in more ways than one.
As a nurse director, I am always confident that the unit is in great and capable hands with Nancy here and that both colleagues and patients are being equally well cared for.
Kimberly Robinson, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
Kim Robinson has been such an asset to the night team in the intensive care unit (ICU) here at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. She is always open to listening and discussing a patient’s care, often offering a snack along the way.
Kim is so knowledgeable and passionate about critical care, having earned her Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN) certification, and she is always willing to share what she’s learned from her experience. She often takes students to shadow her or precepts new employees.
What I appreciate most about Kim is her ability to treat everyone with respect and kindness. I look forward to future night shifts with Kim!
Colleen Stapleton, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
I have known Colleen since starting in our intensive care unit (ICU) on the same day. In the new graduate meeting, I remember Colleen came up to me to introduce herself. She has always been free to lend an ear and willing to offer help.
Colleen hit the ground running in our unit, joining nursing leadership in the hospital and even taking over for our Stall Street Journal monthly update posts. Colleen is such a bright light in our unit. I am in awe of her coming from a four-year nursing program to the ICU. She is equipped with wisdom and humbleness that have made her so successful in this unit. I’m excited to see what the future has in store!
Michele Westcott, Newton-Wellesley Hospital
It’s no wonder Michele is the head of our sunshine fund here in our intensive care unit (ICU) at Newton-Wellesley Hospital. As our charge nurse on nights, Michele is always aware of which nurses may need some thoughtful encouragement, day or night, in our ICU.
I remember when I lost my grandmother this summer and had to make the trip to Ireland, Michele was the first to reach out. When I got home, there was a cozy blanket and tea waiting for me for comfort.Michele not only thinks of everyone in the unit but is also a great resource for new grads; she’s always willing to lend an ear and share behind-the-curtain lessons to help others grow. It’s so fitting that Michele decided to pursue her master’s degree in education this year. She is a great asset to our unit.
Caryn Johnson, Stafford Hill, Northbridge Communities
As a former sales director, I had the privilege of accompanying Caryn on home visits for assessments. These moments were often delicate as families grappled with the difficult decision of moving a loved one into a senior living community. Caryn always approached these conversations with empathy, reassurance, and an uncanny ability to make everyone in the room feel more at ease. She not only explained the benefits of living at Stafford Hill but did so in a way that made families feel supported and understood.
Now, as her executive director, I see firsthand how fiercely Caryn advocates for her residents. She has a way of making every individual feel valued and cared for. Whether walking into an apartment or a common area, she is immediately surrounded by residents who gravitate toward her warmth and compassion. Her dedication extends beyond clinical care; she has spent nights at the bedside of residents with no family, ensuring they are not alone in their final moments.
Caryn’s kindness also extends to her team. She has picked up a stranded nurse’s aide on the highway, hand-delivered COVID tests to staff members’ homes, and baked homemade treats to celebrate milestones. She embodies the heart and soul of nursing: compassion, advocacy, and selflessness.
Nominated bySusan Bowler
Jessica Vega, Stone Hill at Andover, Northbridge Communities
Jessica works with residents who have dementia at Stone Hill in Andover, Mass. I have seen her in action over the past two years. She works confidently, comfortably, and seamlessly with a woman I know who lives there. Jessica is always professional and conscientious in the work she does, and she goes above and beyond!
She possesses the superpower of meeting her patients where they are. As we know, with dementia, you never know what you are going to get. She consistently meets my friend with kindness, humor, and, most importantly, love. She is able to motivate my friend to do what is in her best interest, even if she doesn’t believe it at the time.
Jessica is a tremendous asset to Stone Hill and all of the residents she encounters. Some of my favorite memories of Jessica are her calling my friend “Mama,” hugging her, and dancing with her at a band concert. She is a fabulous representation of nursing and deserves a salute!
Nominated by Betsey Desfosse
Helen Golden, NVNA and Hospice
There is nothing that can help prepare you for the loss of a parent, but Helen was a gift from God to our family. From our first interaction, trust was established, and I knew Helen would serve as an advocate and provide physical, emotional, and mental comfort to my mom through her end-of-life transition.
Her calm, gentle demeanor was comforting to my mom and to our family, helping maintain the highest possible quality of life. Helen devoted her time to us and actively listened to understand the concerns and needs of both my mom and our family.
As a nurse myself, I know the demands and competing priorities nurses face, such as other patients, their families, and daunting charting. However, when Helen walked into our home, she gave 100 percent of her attention to my mom’s care, never showing what other pressing priorities may have been impacting her day. We all looked forward to a visit from Helen.
She respected and honored my mom’s wishes to die with dignity within her home, with all her loved ones at her side. Helen was there for my mom’s final breath. And while she cared for my mom, her support went beyond that. She served as a great comfort for my family and me, providing the emotional support we needed for our well-being.
There are no words to express my sincerest gratitude for the care she provides to her patients. The role of a hospice nurse can be emotionally taxing, with the sadness and grief that accompany end-of-life care. But it is important for Helen to know: You made a profound impact on my mom and our family. Thank you.
Nominated by Cindy Dutton
Christine Pappoe, Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts
For more than 30 years, Chris Pappoe, the lead RN at Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts’ (PPLM) Worcester and Springfield health centers, has modeled Planned Parenthood’s motto: “Care, no matter what.” Chris has dedicated her career to providing high-quality, compassionate sexual and reproductive health care and making sure every patient — no matter their age, ethnicity, or gender identity — feels safe, welcomed, and in control of their own body and health care decisions.
As the lead RN, Chris doesn’t just provide health care — she trains and mentors new nurses and is a resource to clinical staff at all PPLM health centers. She has created a community of strong, compassionate, and skilled nurses who can counsel and support patients through some of their most vulnerable moments without awkwardness or shame. In her 33 years at PPLM, she has trained and shaped the careers of more than 100 nurses.
Chris leads by example, always advocating for both her staff and patients with unwavering dedication. She will be the first to fill in for a colleague to ensure that services continue without interruption. Her commitment to patient-centered care and reproductive freedom not only inspires those around her but also has a lasting impact on the communities she serves.
Simply put, Chris is the glue that keeps everyone together and keeps our abortion care clinics running. Because of her, patients in central and western Massachusetts can count on the Planned Parenthood League of Massachusetts for the care they need to stay healthy and to make their own decisions about when to start or grow their families.
Nominated by Luu Ireland
Sponsored by Studio/B
A Cambridge Health Alliance infection prevention specialist works to ensure safety for all
Karen Miller helps protect the well-being of both the staff and patients at CHA.
Whole-person healing: How one nurse brings heart to cancer research at Mass General
Honoring the nurses keeping systems running, students learning, and patients thriving — often behind the scenes.
Beyond the bedside: The many paths of nursing
This content was produced by Boston Globe Media's Studio/B. The news and editorial departments of The Boston Globe had no role in its production or display.