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
Stacey Kneeland, AFA Obstetrics and Gynecology
I have a unique perspective on the kind of nurse Stacey Kneeland embodies, having been both her co-worker and her patient.
From a patient’s perspective, Stacey was incredibly diligent in making sure my baby and I were well taken care of during delivery. Her input and suggestions made my delivery a success, and her lighthearted demeanor kept me and my husband at ease during a scary time.
As a co-worker, I can attest to Stacey’s talents. She is the first one in the office each morning with a smile on her face, and she handles each task with efficiency and skill. Her ability to multitask is unparalleled. What truly sets her apart, though, is the way she makes people feel. Her patients feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. She takes the time to explain procedures, ease anxieties, and offer encouragement during difficult moments. Patients trust her and ask for her by name. Co-workers rely on her. Providers value her judgment and skill. Stacey Kneeland deserves to be recognized for her hard work and dedication to her profession.
Nominated by Maggie Caissie
Lisa Andrews, Anna Jaques Hospital
Lisa is the standard every new nurse should aspire to be. I work alongside her on a locked psychiatric unit, and she brings excellence, compassion, and kindness to every single shift.
No matter the circumstances — short staffing, high acuity, or unexpected crises — Lisa rises to the occasion. She routinely takes on the heaviest assignments and still finds time to support her co-workers. In a time when burnout and low morale are common in health care, Lisa walks in with energy and unwavering professionalism, and she sustains it until the very end of her shift.
What sets her apart is her ability to make patients feel truly seen and heard. She delivers care without judgment and advocates for those who often struggle to advocate for themselves. Her clinical competence is matched by her leadership skills.
Her compassion expands beyond the hospital walls. While off-duty, she witnessed a stranger experiencing a seizure in a public setting. She immediately assessed the situation and ensured the individual’s safety until emergency responders arrived. Recently, she recognized a former patient in distress in the community and stopped to check on them, ensuring they were safe and supported.
Lisa would never believe she deserves recognition, but she does. If my own family needed care — in the hospital or at home — she is the nurse I would want by their side. In a profession defined by trust, vulnerability, and humanity, Lisa embodies the very best of nursing — not just when she’s on the clock, but in every space she enters.
Nominated by Kim Duford
Hannah Pawlendzio, Anna Jaques Hospital
Hannah is an extraordinary nurse in the special care nursery at Anna Jaques Hospital. She is exceptional in the diversity of her abilities — she efficiently employs her technical expertise to manage a critically ill newborn, then turns calmly to help a family prepare to care for their well newborn at home.
Hannah’s teaching builds confidence in her families and helps them feel equipped to care for their newborn after discharge. I was prompted to write today after a patient shared with me: “Many of the nurses have been really good at latching our baby and helping us, but Hannah was different. … She coached us and helped us feel like we could latch our baby on our own.” Hannah’s knowledge, humility, and ability to teach and coach her families set her apart from her peers.
Nominated by Amanda Sandford
Erin Russo, Anna Jaques Hospital
It is my sincere pleasure to nominate Erin Russo, charge nurse at Anna Jaques Hospital, for recognition of her exceptional leadership, unwavering commitment to patient care, and dedication to our team.
Erin consistently goes above and beyond to ensure the department runs smoothly, even on our most challenging, high-volume days. She leads with calm confidence, clinical excellence, and an extraordinary ability to anticipate the needs of both patients and staff. Her situational awareness and operational strength allow her to proactively address issues before they escalate, ensuring safe, high-quality care delivery at all times.
What truly sets Erin apart is her ability to create an environment where employees feel genuinely supported. She is present, approachable, and solution-oriented. She steps in without hesitation, mentors new team members with patience and encouragement, and fosters strong rapport across disciplines. Her leadership style promotes trust, accountability, and teamwork — strengthening morale and performance within the department.
Erin embodies the values of Anna Jaques Hospital each and every day. Her dedication to excellence, commitment to her colleagues, and advocacy for patients make her an invaluable leader and role model.
Nominated by Megan Gray
Cara Scatamacchia, Anna Jaques Hospital
I am honored to nominate Cara for The Boston Globe’s Salute to Nurses in recognition of her extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to her patients and colleagues.
Cara consistently goes above and beyond to collaborate with her team while forming meaningful connections with every family she serves. As a nurse at the Anna Jaques Hospital Birth Center, she is frequently recognized in patient satisfaction surveys and heartfelt letters. Time and again, families describe how she transforms their most vulnerable moments into experiences filled with reassurance, dignity, and even joy.
One patient wrote, “You took one of the most difficult and scariest moments of my life and brought positivity and comfort and truly made me feel like I was going to make it through the impossible.” Another shared, “You treated us like family. … the impact you will forever have on myself and my family cannot be overstated.” These words echo a common theme: Cara’s presence changes experiences.
Patients describe her as “a true angel on earth,” “a rock star,” and “an absolute all-star.” She is praised for remaining calm and informative in trying situations, advocating fiercely when concerns arise, and bringing levity and humor to painful and uncertain moments. Whether guiding a mother through induction, supporting a family during a cesarean section, offering expert breastfeeding advice at 3 a.m., or simply holding a hand when contractions feel unbearable, Cara delivers clinical excellence wrapped in warmth and humanity.
What sets Cara apart is not only her skill, but her heart. She ensures every patient feels heard, supported, and empowered. For countless families, she has turned fear into strength and uncertainty into confidence.
For her remarkable impact and steadfast commitment to compassionate care, I wholeheartedly recommend Cara for this well-deserved recognition.
Nominated by Alison Sekelsky
Jaclyn Alexander, Atrius Health
Jackie is a pediatric nurse who recently came to the aid of a 9-year-old neurodivergent patient. This patient has been struggling lately with becoming aggressive and feeling like they are a bad person. Jackie spent more than two hours with them while they were in a bit of a crisis. She was able to comfort the patient so much that, on a really cold day, they felt like they could come into the building where it was warmer. Jackie took the time with the patient so that they felt safe and redirected their attention to a positive outcome. The time she took showed an enormous amount of patience, kindness, and quick thinking. This situation could have taken a bad turn, but Jackie had it well handled.
Nominated by Melissa Ings
Jill Biggins, Atrius Health
Jill has a heart of gold and carries it into her work. She goes above and beyond to make sure you’re evaluated properly and would do anything for you. You can tell nursing is her passion and that she was made for this career.
Nominated by Katelyn Marchelletta
MaryKate Collins, Atrius Health
On the afternoon of Nov. 11, 2025, I entered the Atrius Kenmore facility, a blubbering mess for my first colonoscopy. At 27 years old, I’d be undergoing the procedure earlier than most due to some concerning symptoms and because, with colorectal cancer on the rise in young people, my doctor had scheduled the procedure out of an abundance of caution.
As a sufferer of illness anxiety disorder, the days and weeks leading up to the procedure were torture. I tried to maintain my composure upon entering the medical facility, but I couldn’t help but cry throughout the intake and preparation processes. I was terribly embarrassed, but the fear of a bad result was so all-consuming that I couldn’t control my emotions.
Then, a ray of light came in the form of MaryKate Collins. From the time I was wheeled into the operating room to the time I went under, she was by my side comforting me. This involved a lot of tissues and a lot of reassurances from her that everything would be okay. Mostly, though, it was just an ordinary conversation about topics like hometowns, jobs, and travel plans that helped ground me as she and the team went about preparing for the procedure. She was warm, friendly, and compassionate.
Like MaryKate had promised, everything turned out okay. Looking back at that time, I am overcome with emotion thinking about her kindness. It stands out in my mind more than the depth of my fear of the procedure or the unpleasantness of the day-before prep. While it’s easy to assume the worst of humankind by what we see in the headlines, the care of a great nurse reminds you that there is so much good in the world. Thank you, MaryKate, for reminding me.
Nominated by Anonymous
Lisa Roos, Baystate Medical CenterLisa was our nurse when I had my last child. It was the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. She was very informative and made sure to educate us on things we didn’t even think to ask. Lisa took such amazingly gentle care of our Benjamin, which we deeply appreciated. She’s beyond respectful and deserves respect. She made sure we had any and all questions answered and any worries and concerns put at ease. Her calm and gentle demeanor put my nerves to rest. Lisa made sure we were all set and ready to head home. She was my last nurse in the maternity ward for my last baby. Thank you so much, Lisa, for taking such great care of me and my family! We appreciate you and all that you do every day!
Nominated by Shivonne Crowley
Gretchen Wasner, Beacon Pediatrics
I am honored to nominate Gretchen for the Salute to Nurses section. Our family has been part of this pediatric practice for almost two years, and from day one, Gretchen has been a constant source of kindness, reassurance, and exceptional care.
As a parent, it is immediately clear when a nurse truly loves what they do — and Gretchen embodies that every day. She consistently treats our children with patience and warmth, helping them feel comfortable and safe during visits, even in moments that could otherwise feel stressful. Her calm presence and gentle approach make a meaningful difference for both children and parents.
Most recently, we reached out through the patient portal with a concern, and Gretchen responded promptly and efficiently. She communicated clearly, collaborated quickly with the pediatrician, and helped get us in for an appointment without delay. Her ability to balance efficiency with compassion is remarkable — she never makes you feel rushed, yet she ensures that care is timely and thorough.
Gretchen demonstrates outstanding clinical competence, excellent communication skills, and genuine advocacy for her patients. She listens, follows through, and makes families feel seen and supported. We trust her deeply, and her dedication has played a huge role in why we feel so confident in the care our children receive.
She is truly an exceptional nurse and so deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Christine Salvucci
Silvia Bota, Benchmark Senior Living at Leominster Crossings
I am writing to enthusiastically recommend Silvia Bota for recognition based on her exceptional contributions to resident-centered care. I have had the opportunity to work alongside her and directly observe her nursing practice, and I can confidently say that she exemplifies the highest standards of the profession. If she were in the Olympics, she would win a gold medal for the highest standards of nursing care. She is calm and thoughtful, produces positive outcomes, and strengthens interdisciplinary teamwork in my observation. In summary, Silvia is a dedicated, compassionate, and highly capable nurse who embodies the core values of nursing. I strongly believe that she is deserving of recognition for her exemplary care as a nurse.
Nominated by Aletha McGuiggan
Natale Williams, Benchmark Senior Living at Leominster Crossings
She is a truly compassionate nurse. Natale really understands empathy, and she is extremely well trained, having worked in all kinds of nursing settings, from emergency rooms to critical care units and residential settings. She has seen it all, yet she is very gentle with younger, less-experienced workers and nurses. She is a truly classy and broadly educated lady who treats everybody she interacts with just as she wants and deserves to be treated, with respect, compassion, and dignity.
Nominated by Silvia Bota
Linda Zacchini, Benchmark Senior Living at Chelmsford Crossings
Linda has been one of the most caring nurses I have encountered in my years at Benchmark.
She pays attention to each concern. She takes time to listen. She uses her personal time to care for the residents.
There is no job too big or too small for her. She is empathetic to all, treating all the residents with the same level of attention.
She is not just a nurse to us. She makes the employees feel cared for.
Nominated by Dawn Bygrave
Sophia Caruso, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Sophia Caruso works the night shift on the medical-surgical units at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham (BIDHN). Following a competitive selection process, Sophia was recently promoted to clinical lead in her department, a leadership role with a focus on staff support as well as patient care.
A patient recently commented on the exceptional care that she received from Sophia, as well as the care that she observed Sophia provide to her elderly roommate. She remarked, “Sophia was so patient as she tried to help the woman overcome her fear of falling.”
Sophia’s colleagues describe her as compassionate, kind, and easy to approach. Sophia is always there with a positive attitude and ready to help her co-workers, commented one staff nurse. She added, “Sophia is always reassuring us that she’s there if we need help, which makes you feel good when you’re new and overwhelmed.” Another co-worker commented, after requesting help from Sophia, “I simply cannot thank Sophia enough for jumping in, making patient care a priority, being the epitome of nursing teamwork and ensuring quality care.”
Sophia recently received a shout-out from leadership for her help with the management of a patient who was physically and verbally abusive. Her manager commented favorably on the interventions that Sophia provided and that she was instrumental in ensuring that no one was hurt.
Sophia goes out of her way to help everyone all the time. During the recent snowstorm and patient surge, Sophia stayed late after her night shifts to ensure that patients received the care they needed. Our patients and staff are so very lucky that Sophia Caruso has chosen to practice at BIDHN!
Nominated by Amy Krushell
Stav Enbar, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Stav works as a float nurse at BID Needham. She is a caring, dedicated individual who loves supporting and assisting nurses at the bedside. A few months ago, Stav came to me with an offer to help with anything I could think of to assist with supporting our new graduate nurses. I manage our Nurse Residency Program, and I asked Stav if she would function in the pilot role of a peer mentor to our current cohort of nurse residents. This role would be to check in between our residency meetings to provide additional support and to assist them clinically as needed. This would be especially important and helpful once they were off orientation and did not have the consistent support of their preceptor. Stav was enthusiastic about this role and readily jumped at the chance to support our new staff.
Stav was a pioneer and took on this peer mentor role with a smile and excitement. Stav exceeded expectations and went above and beyond what I had envisioned for this role. She diligently checked in with the new nurse residents during their first year of practice and kept me updated on any issues.
The difference Stav made in this role was readily evident. Examples are numerous. One example was her work to ensure extra support was given to one of our new nurses who was anxious about coming off orientation by informing the educators and leadership so extra support could be provided to ensure a smooth transition. We would not have known of this concern if it were not for Stav’s communication with this nurse.
Stav also is dedicated to maintaining a culture of respect and caring among our team. She is an example to other nurses on how to work effectively as a team and maintain high expectations for one another.
Stav’s mentees have commented that “Stav is amazing,” and they consistently verbalize how meaningful her support is during their first year of practice. Stav not only checks in on their emotional well-being but also readily assists them with any clinical questions. As a result of this pilot, we now have expanded the peer mentor program so that every new nurse has the support of a peer mentor during their first year of practice at BID Needham. This is a direct result of Stav’s success in piloting this role. Stav’s joy in her work is evident every day and we are so lucky to have her as part of our BID Needham nursing team.
Nominated by Heidi Alpert
Maxwell Goldman, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Max is one of those nurses everyone wants to work with. He stays late to help if staffing support is needed during volume surges or snowstorms (after nights, it is not unusual to see him after his shift checking to ensure all his patients have their breakfast). He is thorough in all that he does. Patients love him, he understands the science behind his responsibilities, he is extremely supportive of support staff, and he thinks outside the box when working with our nursing techs. Max is kind, always smiling, and always lends support to his peers.
An example of his excellence in practice includes a patient he had who was experiencing changes in mental status and the treatment was focused on medications. Max took the time to talk to the patient in a compassionate voice and let her express, as best she could, how she felt while he helped her work through this moment of anxiety. He focused on making a difficult situation for this patient tolerable.
He also never hesitates to assist his colleagues even when he is busy with his own patients. One example is when he jumped in to help with a patient who was withdrawing by assisting with the orders and setting up the bed with seizure pads. He also helped this colleague understand withdrawal and worked on ideas to assist this recently homeless patient. His ideas for solutions were truly incredible. Max is in his first year of practice as a nurse and has already made his mark, as he makes a difference in patients’ and staff’s lives every day. One of his more experienced colleagues stated, “I honestly believe that he is one of the best amongst us. Truly one of a kind!” To me, that says it all.
Clare Martin, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Clare Martin consistently exemplifies the highest standards of compassionate, patient-centered nursing care, and the example provided is just one reflection of the way she practices nursing every single day.
When a patient required a procedure to be performed in Boston for safety reasons, Clare approached the conversation with empathy and sensitivity, thoughtfully explaining the situation while maintaining the patient’s dignity and easing what could have been an embarrassing or stressful experience. She took the initiative to make multiple phone calls to coordinate resources and confirm availability, ensuring a seamless transition of care. Clare carefully reviewed the plan with the patient, answered every logistical question, and maintained a calm, reassuring presence throughout the process.
Determined to prevent delays, she went above and beyond to ensure the patient did not need to reschedule or repeat preparation. Clare is consistently accommodating and reliable, willingly taking on any task asked of her and frequently exceeding expectations. She has also played a key role in assisting with scheduling patient transfers to Boston when care in Needham was not appropriate, helping patients receive timely treatment without unnecessary inconvenience. No matter the pressure of the moment, Clare remains composed and professional, always with a warm smile that reflects her genuine dedication to her patients and colleagues alike.
Nominated by Asheley Davis
Lauren McGrath, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Lauren McGrath has worked the night shift on the medical-surgical units at BID Needham for almost three years, and she is a superstar. Her peers say that Lauren practices at a level well beyond her experience. Lauren chooses to care for patients with the most complex medical issues on the unit, and she loves it!
Lauren is extremely dedicated to her patients. Anyone looking for Lauren in the hospital knows that she can always be found in patient rooms, talking to patients, truly listening to them, and doing anything she can to make their hospital experience more positive.
Lauren’s dedication to her patients is matched only by her commitment to her peers. Lauren is known for precepting all the new night nurses. Most recently, Lauren also chose to become a peer mentor, a role in which she is a natural. One of her mentees commented: “Lauren is genuinely the best! During my shifts I feel like I can always talk to her about anything.”
“Lauren is so amazing,” exclaimed her other mentee.
Lauren has so much compassion and cares for everyone in her department. I recall one night when Lauren and her colleagues learned of a tragic occurrence with one of their colleagues and friends. Lauren immediately jumped into her role as nurturer and rounded on the staff in her department to check on how they were doing and to provide support. Lauren McGrath is an outstanding nurse and caregiver in every sense and is truly deserving of this recognition.
Madeleine Pagano, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Needham
Madeleine “Maddy” Pagano works evenings on the medical-surgical units at BID Needham, and she is an outstanding nurse. Maddy is clinically excellent and extremely generous with her knowledge and expertise. Maddy loves supporting students and new graduate nurses! She is always the first to offer to precept new nurses. Even if she is not formally precepting a nurse, Maddy can always be seen with a new nurse or nursing student by her side, no matter how busy or involved her evening is. A student nurse who Maddy precepted recently commented on Maddy’s attention to detail and her ability to break down complex situations clearly, so that they can be easily understood.
I recall Maddy helping me with a skill that I wasn’t familiar with, and how patient and understanding she was, never rushing or judging me. Maddy was the first person to want to become a peer mentor when the program was created, and she takes the role extremely seriously.
Maddy is known as the quintessential team player! She always demonstrates concern for her colleagues and how they are doing, and she responds to emergency situations wherever and whenever they occur in the hospital. Maddy is extremely flexible with her work schedule, filling gaps when they occur to ensure that our patients receive the best care.
Maddy never shies away from a challenge! She is passionate about helping patients with pain management issues, particularly chronic pain. With her skill and expertise in pain management, Maddy is able to be a strong advocate for patients in pain and to facilitate positive outcomes for her patients. We are so fortunate that Maddy Pagano has chosen to work here.
Linda Burke, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
I am proud to nominate Linda Burke, director of childbirth, for her outstanding leadership during the storm planning and response. Linda guided us through every step of preparation with exceptional organization and clarity, ensuring that all teams were aligned and ready for any scenario. Her strategic approach set the entire department up for success and created a sense of confidence during a challenging time. Linda worked overnight to make sure every detail was covered, demonstrating her deep commitment to patient safety and staff support. She collaborated seamlessly with colleagues across all hospital departments, offering guidance, reassurance, and hands‑on help whenever needed. Linda’s dedication, calm presence, and strong leadership truly made a difference for both staff and patients.
Nominated by Lynn Cronin
Candace Colonna, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Throughout one of the toughest weather events our hospital has faced, the blizzard of 2026, Candy stood out as a steady, compassionate, and reliable presence for her team.
As the storm intensified and staffing challenges grew, Candy worked long, demanding hours to ensure her units remained supported and safe. She was constantly present — checking in with staff, assisting with patient needs, and providing calm, thoughtful guidance when conditions were anything but predictable. Her ability to remain composed under pressure helped ease anxiety for both staff and patients, and her willingness to jump in wherever she was needed strengthened the team during a very difficult time.
What truly sets Candy apart is the grace and compassion she brings to every situation. During the blizzard, she led with empathy, kindness, and a sincere commitment to her colleagues’ well‑being.
For her resilience, leadership, and heartfelt dedication, Candy is highly deserving of this recognition.
Candy Colonna is the kind of nurse every patient hopes to meet on one of the hardest days of their life. As the compassionate leader overseeing the 3 South unit at BID Plymouth, she brings not only clinical excellence but also a steady presence that reassures families and patients alike. In a health care environment that can often feel rushed and overwhelming, Candy creates a culture rooted in dignity, patience, and genuine human connection.
Her leadership is evident the moment you step onto the unit. The tone she sets — calm, organized, and respectful — flows through her team. Nurses look to her not only for guidance but for inspiration. She leads by example, never asking more of others than she is willing to give herself. Whether she is mentoring a new nurse, comforting a worried family member, or ensuring that every detail of patient care is handled with precision, Candy does it with quiet confidence and heartfelt compassion.
What truly distinguishes Candy is her kindness. She understands that healing is not only physical but emotional. She takes the time to listen, explain, and comfort. Families facing uncertainty feel seen and supported under her watch. Patients know they are not just a room number, but individuals whose stories matter.
The 3 South unit reflects her values — teamwork, empathy, and excellence. Staff morale is stronger because of her encouragement. Patients feel safer because of her vigilance. Families leave grateful because of her care.
In every sense, Candy Colonna embodies what nursing is meant to be: skilled, selfless, and deeply human. Her impact reaches far beyond hospital walls, and she represents the very best of the nursing profession.
Nominated by Gary Sturgis
Colleen Edwards, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Colleen goes above and beyond for her own patients and those she comes in contact with, constantly advocating for their needs to ensure the best quality of care with efficiency and accuracy. She also is willing to jump into action and help any nurse who needs an extra hand. Her compassion for patients is unmatched.
Nominated by Jordyn Ronan
Richard Fidler, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Rich goes above and beyond daily for anyone who is in need. His calm demeanor and kindness to the patients, families, and staff are truly outstanding. Regardless of chaotic, high-pressure situations, he maintains his composure.
Rich is an unsung hero, as he is always available to help his colleagues, using his time off to help his co-workers move, shovel snow, and assist with any other needs they may have.
Rich, the world needs more kind and selfless people like you! We are very fortunate to have you in our midst.
Nominated by Ana Roos
Karen Giorgianni, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
During the blizzard of 2026, in a week marked by unprecedented challenges, Karen rose to the occasion with professionalism, strength, and deep dedication to the hospital and her team.
Throughout the storm, Karen worked many long and difficult hours, often staying on-site far beyond her scheduled time to ensure the emergency department and hospital operations remained fully supported. When staffing became strained, Karen stepped in without hesitation and took on the role of nursing supervisor overnight, providing critical leadership during some of the most demanding hours of the storm. Her willingness to assume this responsibility ensured continuity of care and reinforced a sense of stability throughout the hospital.
Karen’s calm, steady approach and her strong leadership were deeply appreciated by staff across multiple departments.
Emily Hagens, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Emily Hagens showed exceptional leadership, dedication, and unwavering support of staff during the blizzard of 2026. In a week defined by extraordinary weather challenges, Emily’s presence and actions stood out as a true example of what nursing leadership should be.
Throughout the storm, Emily demonstrated remarkable calm, compassion, and adaptability. As the blizzard intensified and staffing resources became strained, she consistently stepped forward — anticipating needs, coordinating care, and ensuring both patients and staff felt supported. Emily maintained continuous communication with teams across units, helping to solve problems quickly and efficiently while keeping morale high in exceptionally stressful conditions.
During the blizzard, she checked in frequently with staff, offering reassurance, humor, and encouragement, even as she managed her own workload and responsibilities. Her presence was a grounding force for many.
Emily’s leadership is rooted in empathy, teamwork, and a profound respect for those around her. During one of the most challenging events the hospital has faced in years, she exemplified resilience, professionalism, and compassion. Her actions ensured that patient care remained safe and seamless, and that staff felt supported.
Jane Johnson, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Throughout the historic blizzard of 2026, Jane demonstrated exceptional professionalism, resilience, and unwavering dedication to both her staff and patients.
During the blizzard, Jane worked many long, demanding hours, remaining on-site far beyond her scheduled shifts to ensure the intensive care unit remained fully supported. As conditions became increasingly challenging and staffing needs intensified, Jane stepped forward without hesitation and covered nursing supervisor hours, helping to provide crucial leadership and stability when it was needed most.
Jane led by example — always calm, focused, and solutions‑driven. She consistently checked in with her team, ensured patients received the highest level of care, and offered guidance and encouragement during a time of significant stress.
Jane’s dedication, compassion, and steadfast support of her team were instrumental in maintaining patient safety and staff well‑being during the blizzard.
Julie McGahan, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Oncology nurse Julie, lovingly known to both patients and providers as “Julie McGahan,” was inspired to become an adult oncology nurse by her grandfather’s experiences with prostate cancer treatments at BID Plymouth. While raising three daughters, she has worked in BID Plymouth’s oncology division for 26 years, 16 of which were on the hospital’s former inpatient oncology floor before transitioning to her current role in the outpatient oncology clinic, where she has worked tirelessly for the past decade.
Julie’s 26 years in oncologic medicine clearly demonstrate a lifetime of dedication and lifesaving service to her community. She has helped thousands of patients and their loved ones in pivotal moments, including both first diagnoses and final goodbyes. She has nurtured lives managing labs, monitoring vitals, and administering chemotherapy treatments while providing exacting care and tending to raw vulnerabilities in a gentle, impactful way that is all her own.
Julie McGahan’s legacy in local oncologic nursing care at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth lives within every patient she has touched and every life she has influenced with her skills, humility, humanity, and the utmost grace. Thank you, Julie, for the outstanding and loving care you have provided every day to our patients for all of these years.
Nominated by Amy Pratt
Melissa Randall, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Melissa, emergency department nurse manager, showed exceptional resilience and leadership during the blizzard of 2026. The storm brought extraordinary challenges to our hospital, and the emergency department was among the hardest hit. Despite the intensity of the blizzard and the pressures it created, Melissa led her team with strength, calm, and compassion.
The day after the storm, the emergency department experienced an overwhelming surge of patients. Many staff members were fatigued, stressed, and still navigating the effects of the blizzard themselves. Melissa remained a steady, reassuring presence throughout it all. She worked tirelessly alongside her team, assisting wherever she was needed, ensuring patient flow remained safe, and providing emotional support during a particularly demanding period. She consistently checked in on her staff, offered guidance, and created an environment where everyone felt supported. Her compassion — paired with her strong clinical and managerial skills — helped her team push through an exceptionally difficult time with confidence and unity.
Ana Roos, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
Ana is an amazing clinical leader and role model. She is always professional, compassionate, and goes above and beyond for our patients and her co-workers. I am very grateful for all the support she has given me, and she has never made me feel less than. She is fair and treats everyone with dignity and respect. We are very lucky to have her!
Nominated by Kerry Nunes
Michele Shouldice, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
In the blizzard of 2026, one of the most challenging weeks our hospital has faced in years, Michele demonstrated strength, professionalism, and compassion that truly exemplify nursing excellence.
When the blizzard created severe staffing limitations and travel disruptions, Michele immediately stepped forward to ensure continuity of care. Without hesitation, she volunteered to cover the overnight nursing supervisor shift, providing critical support, guidance, and reassurance to the nursing staff throughout the storm. Her willingness to take on this responsibility allowed bedside nurses to focus on patient care, knowing they had a leader they could rely on.
Despite the intense conditions, long hours, and uncertainty, Michele carried herself with remarkable positivity. She brought much‑needed calm during a stressful and unpredictable situation. Her presence made a meaningful difference, not only operationally but emotionally.
Michele’s leadership style is rooted in empathy, teamwork, and service. During the storm, she demonstrated adaptability, sound judgment, and an unwavering commitment to doing whatever was necessary to support the team. She ensured nurses were never left without guidance, helped troubleshoot unexpected challenges, and fostered a sense of unity among staff working under difficult circumstances.
Mikayla Shruhan, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
I would like to recognize Mikayla for her extraordinary dedication and unwavering positivity during the blizzard of 2026. Throughout one of the most challenging weather events our hospital has faced, Mikayla consistently demonstrated resilience, leadership, and an inspiring commitment to both her staff and the patients we serve.
During the storm, Mikayla worked countless hours, often staying far beyond her scheduled shifts to make sure her team felt supported and safe. She was fully present on the units — checking on staff, anticipating needs, offering guidance, and stepping in wherever she was needed. Her calm, steady presence allowed her team to stay focused and reassured during rapidly changing conditions.
What truly sets Mikayla apart is the positive attitude she brings to even the most difficult situations. Despite the long hours and challenges of the storm, she maintained a warm smile and an encouraging spirit that lifted morale across the hospital. Her ability to stay upbeat while leading through a crisis created a sense of stability and unity during a time of great stress.
Wound Center Nursing Staff, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Plymouth
I have had several interactions with the entire staff at the Wound Center at the Beth Israel Deaconess–Plymouth. I had a very serious injury in December that ultimately required significant nursing intervention and care.
First of all, the nursing care has been outstanding, and their understanding and compassion are second to none. It has been a long and difficult road, but they have supported me through it all. When I had questions, they were able to answer them and reassure me. When I had concerns, they became the best advocates for additional treatment and made sure that I received exactly what was needed for my recovery to progress.
I still see them three times a week and wouldn’t even consider seeing anyone but them. I am a retired nurse of 54 years and know good nursing care when I see it — and I see it every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I can never thank them enough.
Nominated by Patricia Small
Fatima Barbosa, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Fatima exemplifies the gold standard of nursing through a seamless blend of clinical mastery and humanity. With more than 30 years of nursing experience at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, her clinical competency is undeniable; she remains cool under pressure during triggers and codes, providing a reliable safety net for both peers and patients. She never cuts corners, ensuring every clinical detail is executed with absolute precision.
Her compassion is visible in the dignified, above-and-beyond care she provides. By brushing patients’ hair, holding their hands, and ensuring they are meticulously clean and comfortable, she addresses the whole person, not just the diagnosis. This creates a deep trust in care, as evidenced by her patients’ consistently positive feedback and the calm, stable state in which she leaves them for the morning shift.
As a communicator and mentor, Fatima’s approachable demeanor fosters a safe, collaborative learning environment for her colleagues. She acts as a vital advocate by making her patients’ needs her first priority, even when managing the heavy responsibilities of a resource nurse. Her 30-year legacy on the unit serves as a masterclass in how a nurse can be both a wealth of knowledge and a source of profound empathy. Every shift I am able to hand off with Fatima, I realize how truly lucky Farr 11 and its patients are to have her.
Nominated by Diane Cooper
Fatima is an exceptional nurse who consistently demonstrates skills, dedication, and compassion with everyone she meets. She always puts patient care first, ensuring that each patient is treated with respect, dignity, and empathy. Patients who come back to the hospital will ask for Fatima to be their nurse. She takes the time to get to know her patients and does everything she can to make them feel supported. Fatima is warm and inviting. These small but meaningful actions make a significant difference on our floor and for the patients.
Fatima is a team player. She is reliable, supportive, and always willing to help other nurses when the unit is busy or they need assistance. Fatima has stayed late past her shift on multiple occasions to help nurses with cleaning patients, medicating, or translating when needed. Her communication is clear, respectful, and empathetic. This has helped to create a positive and efficient work environment.
I would want Fatima to take care of any member of my family if they were in the hospital. She inspires other nurses to be just like her.
Nominated by Kathleen Curran
Elizabeth Berkowitz, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Liz exemplifies the highest standard of nursing through a rare combination of compassion, clinical precision, and fierce patient advocacy. As a neurology and spinal trauma nurse — and now in surgical care — she brings extraordinary attention to detail to every case. In trauma settings where seconds matter and small oversights can have life-altering consequences, she is meticulous, calm, and relentlessly thorough. Her patients benefit not only from her technical mastery, but also from the confidence she instills in families during their most vulnerable moments.
What sets Liz apart is her ability to pair clinical competency with deep human connection. She takes the time to explain complex neurological or surgical realities in language families can understand, ensuring they feel informed rather than overwhelmed. She anticipates concerns before they are voiced, advocates for second looks when something doesn’t sit right, and refuses to let patients fall through systemic cracks. Her advocacy has meant pushing for additional scans, clarifying surgical plans, and ensuring postoperative care instructions are airtight.
Trust in her care is immediate and enduring. Colleagues rely on her judgment. Surgeons respect her preparation and foresight. Families remember not just the quality of treatment, but how she made them feel seen and protected in moments of fear.
Liz maintains excellence regardless of environment. Whether stabilizing a spinal trauma patient or managing complex surgical recovery, she operates with integrity, empathy, and unwavering standards. Her award-winning patient care is not accidental — it is the product of discipline, heart, and a profound belief that every patient deserves vigilance, dignity, and a voice.
Nominated by Ben Berkowitz
Kendra Bruce, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Kendra Bruce exemplifies nursing excellence in every dimension of the profession. A former bedside nurse with deep clinical roots, she now leads multiple professional development programs that support and elevate nursing practice across the organization 24/7/365. Her portfolio is expansive and high‑impact: she guides new nurses through Transition to Practice, oversees the entire Nursing Professional Governance structure, and directs the Nurse Mentorship Program — each of which strengthens the quality, consistency, and culture of nursing at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC).
Kendra recently completed her Doctor of Nursing Practice in Nursing Administration, further demonstrating her commitment to advancing the profession and modeling lifelong learning. Despite the scope of her responsibilities, she brings unwavering warmth, humility, and compassion to every interaction. She is also a devoted mother to three young boys under the age of 6, balancing her demanding professional role with equal dedication to her family.
Kendra’s passion for nursing, her ability to inspire others, and her relentless pursuit of excellence make her an extraordinary leader. She embodies the values and philosophy of BIDMC and shapes the experience of every new graduate nurse who enters our institution. Her influence is profound, her leadership exceptional, and she is deeply deserving of recognition.
Nominated by Alyson Dossett
Stephanie Comeau, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I’m a surgery resident, and Steph is a fundamental member of our critical care team and plays an essential role in training surgical residents in caring for critically ill trauma patients.
She is an incredible advocate for her patients. She brings ideas to rounds that the team may not have considered, things that only she, as the patient’s nurse, may have known or picked up on. She is extremely knowledgeable and consistently provides trauma surgery patients and their families exceptional care and compassion during the darkest days of their lives.
Frankly, from a resident’s perspective, I feel she brings a lot of joy and perspective to our lives as well with her quick wit and dry humor. She brings perspective to what can otherwise be very discouraging clinical situations. Steph helps us residents help ourselves and help our patients as we continue to learn the art of medicine, particularly in its applications to critical care. I couldn’t have survived the last four years of general surgery residency and acute care surgery without Steph. We are lucky to have her in our trauma critical care unit and at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
Nominated by Sally Justus
Patricia Connelly, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I work with the oncology fellows where Patricia “Paddy” Connelly is the nurse coordinator of the intensive outpatient clinic. She checks in with patients when they arrive, making them feel at ease, and calls patients as doctors need her to. She brings compassion to everything she does, orchestrating and organizing patient care so all the necessary orders are placed, assisting when patients have to be hospitalized, and overall ensuring patients are well cared for.
She also takes care of the intensive outpatient team to ensure everyone is on the same page for excellent patient care. I have worked in that clinic for many years now, watching her compassionately coordinate care always!
Nominated by Lisa Carbone
Joanne Devine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I first met Joanne Devine when I was an intern. Even then, I recognized something rare: a nurse who naturally raised the standard of everyone around her. Now, as associate director of the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center consultation-liaison psychiatry service, I’ve worked alongside Joanne for years, and her impact only deepens with time.
Joanne is an exceptional psychiatric nurse specialist whose compassion, clinical excellence, and quiet leadership profoundly shape our service. She cares for some of our most vulnerable patients: those with severe eating disorders, acute psychiatric symptoms, or prolonged medical boarding while awaiting psychiatric placement. These are patients the system often struggles to hold. Joanne holds them. She brings empathy, stability, and fierce advocacy to every interaction, not because anyone’s watching, but because it’s who she is.
Some of our sickest patients are those with severe eating disorders requiring a structured medical protocol and weekly multidisciplinary team meetings. These cases are emotionally demanding and clinically high stakes. Joanne’s steady presence in those meetings is something I’ve come to rely on deeply. She knows the patients, she knows the teams, and she speaks up with observations that sharpen our clinical thinking. She’s supported me and taught me through some of the most difficult cases of my career, with a matter-of-factness that makes everyone around her better.
What truly sets Joanne apart is how she elevates everyone around her. She guides medical teams, nursing colleagues, and psychiatry faculty through challenging encounters with professionalism and composure, even in crisis. For trainees, she teaches through example, showing medical students, residents, and fellows what it looks like to pair clinical rigor with genuine compassion.
Joanne builds trust, promotes healing, and reminds us all that the heart of consultation-liaison psychiatry lies in authentic human connection. I can’t imagine our service without her, and neither can our patients.
Nominated by Katiuska Ramirez
Katie DiCesare, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Katie is one of the most exceptional nurses I have had the privilege of working with. She consistently demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting her colleagues and fostering a collaborative work environment. Despite maintaining a demanding workload, she remains attentive to the needs of others and frequently steps in to assist, contributing significantly to the overall efficiency and morale of the unit.
Her critical care expertise and clinical judgment exceed the standard expectations of an intensive care unit nurse. She approaches complex situations with confidence, sound reasoning, and a high level of competence. I routinely seek her guidance and value her insight, as she consistently demonstrates professionalism and strong critical thinking skills.
Katie is highly deserving of recognition for her outstanding clinical abilities, dedication to teamwork, and unwavering commitment to both her patients and colleagues. She is an invaluable asset to our team.
Nominated by Alyssa Arone
Mary Doherty, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Mary is an amazing nurse. She is constantly going above and beyond for her co-workers and patients to make sure patients have the best care. Whenever there is an issue with a patient, whether it’s their health or parking issues, Mary does everything in her power to help the patient and their family. When it comes to Mary, there is no such thing as a difficult patient. She does whatever needs to be done to help her patients. Overall, Mary is the best. If you’re in her care, you are getting the best care possible.
Nominated by Jake
Allison Engleman, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Allison is always there when needed, always available to help. She works constantly as a team player and provides quality care regardless of who the patient is or how busy she is.
Nominated by Jess Batchelder
Kailey Evans, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I am honored to nominate Kailey Evans, the obstetrics nurse on my care team during my delivery at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC). As a first-time mom, the idea of delivery genuinely scared me. Because of the way Kailey cared for me that day, it became the smoothest and most beautiful part of my pregnancy. I still get emotional thinking about the difference she made for me and my husband. On a day that can feel overwhelming and fast-moving, she made me feel supported.
Kailey guided me through labor step by step, explaining what was happening in real time and what we could do next. When contractions became hard to manage, she helped me try different positions that eased the pain and supported progress. When I started worrying that things were moving too slowly, she reassured me that what I was experiencing was normal and that we didn’t need to rush. That changed everything. I could breathe again, relax, and trust my body.
Early on, when I felt overwhelmed about pain management, Kailey walked me through the options in plain language and helped me decide without pressure. She also talked through the Foley balloon option carefully, the benefits and trade-offs in that moment, and when it would make sense, so I could choose based on facts instead of fear. Even though I didn’t end up needing it, her guidance helped me feel prepared.
What stood out most was how quickly she earned my trust. In less than nine hours, she listened closely, stayed by my side, and kept my comfort and preferences front and center. I felt like I had not just a nurse, but someone in the room who truly cared.
Kailey didn’t just help me deliver my baby; she shaped how I will remember that day for the rest of my life.
Nominated by Swathy Babu
Maggie Fermental, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Maggie is one of the most caring and empathetic people I have met. She cares for her patients with compassion and understanding. Opening the doors that once made the way difficult is her specialty, and she shares her gift with everyone. The neurology department is lucky to have her on their team, and each person that she encounters is blessed. I am delighted to call her a colleague and a friend.
Nominated by Pamela Johnson
Denise Gallaghar, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Denise is an exceptional caregiver. She helped take care of our son in the special care nursery for about a month. She was always available to help us and guide us throughout our neonatal intensive care unit journey and provided exceptional care for our son while he was in the nursery.
Nominated by Ipsita Bregianos
Samuel Grizzle,Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I would like to nominate neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) registered nurse Sam, who cared for our son Jack during our stay. As both a parent and an emergency department nurse educator who works closely with nurses developing their clinical practice, I have a deep appreciation for the clinical expertise, compassion, and communication required to deliver exceptional nursing care. Sam demonstrated all of these qualities in a way that left a lasting impact on our family.
During some of Jack’s most difficult days, Sam remained calm, attentive, and incredibly thorough. His clinical competence was evident in the way he assessed Jack, anticipated needs, and clearly explained what was happening. As a nurse, I recognized the depth of his knowledge and the confidence he brought to the bedside. As a parent, I felt reassured and supported during one of the most uncertain moments for our family.
What stood out most was Sam’s compassion. The NICU can feel overwhelming for families, but Sam took the time to answer our questions thoughtfully and ensure we felt informed and included in Jack’s care. He understood that caring for a critically ill newborn also means caring for the parents who are navigating fear and uncertainty.
Even when he was not Jack’s primary nurse, Sam made a point to check in on him. Those moments meant more than he likely realized. Knowing Sam was on the unit and looking out for Jack brought us comfort and trust in his care.
Sam represents the very best of nursing — clinical excellence, compassion, and advocacy. He is the kind of nurse every patient and family hopes to have during their most vulnerable moments.
Nominated by Emily Gulovsen
Clare Hampford, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Clare has consistently demonstrated excellent clinical judgment and patient advocacy since coming to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. She has been and will forever be an asset to the infusion unit with Epic building and conversion.
As our nurse educator, not only has she contributed her knowledge and skills, but she has always put the patient experience and safety first. She is admirably compassionate as a nurse and as a team member. She has been a key leader with training and communicating within the unit and to other infusion sites to ensure we are providing the best patient care imaginable. She also listens carefully to feedback and acts promptly and appropriately to help solve problems. She has truly made a difference in the unit and for our patients. She really encapsulates what makes being a nurse such a special profession.
Nominated by Tatum Speicher
Ligaya Hannaford, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I underwent a kidney transplant in April last year. Ligaya Hannaford provided outstanding coordination of care and follow-up care. Her dedication and caring demeanor were outstanding. Every time I had a question, it was answered. There were many tests and coordination efforts before and after the surgery, and there were never any issues.
When I had an issue, Ligaya solved it. Ligaya is an exceptional nurse who consistently goes above and beyond for her patients.
Nominated by John Buckley
Lisa Henry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Lisa exemplifies what it means to be a lead licensed practical nurse through her powerful leadership skills, warm personality, and determined attitude. She brings experience and high-quality patient care skills that help care for our patients when they are in the office or when they call with questions.
Nominated by Alexander Quigley
Abby Hunter, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I am honored to nominate Abby Hunter for her exceptional compassion, intelligence, and unwavering support. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure patients feel seen, heard, and genuinely cared for — often during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Her plethora of clinical knowledge inspires clinical confidence and allows her to make quick judgments for deteriorating patients. As a charge nurse, Abby is a true team player and leader who readily supports colleagues and contributes to a calm, collaborative environment.
As a preceptor, she plays an important role in fostering and mentoring new nurses, offering guidance and encouragement despite being in a fast-paced and demanding setting. Abby is a true patient advocate, bringing kindness and empathy to patients and families, whether they are grieving the loss of a loved one or have been offered a heart transplant. She is a role model for what nursing at its best looks like.
Nominated by Rebeca Jeong
Abby is a highly skilled and compassionate intensive care unit nurse who has made a meaningful impact during her many years in the coronary care unit. She is a steadfast advocate for her patients, their families, and her colleagues, consistently delivering care that is both clinically excellent and deeply human. Abby frequently cares for patients requiring mechanical circulatory support while awaiting heart transplant — often for extended hospitalizations lasting months. During this time, she intentionally builds trusting relationships with patients and families, providing not only expert nursing care but emotional support during some of the most vulnerable, tenuous moments of their lives.
One particularly memorable example of Abby’s compassion occurred when a young adult had a sudden cardiac arrest requiring venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO). Unfortunately, we did not get the prognosis we had hoped for. Abby spent her 12 hours tending to the friends and family members of the patient, providing them all the compassion and empathy they needed during this difficult time. Abby’s genuine dedication to tending to the family did not go unnoticed by the patient’s mother or her surrounding peers.
Clinically, Abby excels in high-acuity environments where her critical thinking and calm demeanor allow her to manage rapidly deteriorating patients with confidence and precision. Her expertise is consistently relied upon by her peers and leadership alike.
Beyond the bedside, Abby serves in leadership roles including charge nurse and preceptor, where she enthusiastically mentors new nurses and fosters professional growth within the unit. She brings warmth, positivity, and approachability to the unit, offering support, sound judgment, and a welcoming presence to her colleagues.
Abby’s compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her an invaluable member of the health care team.
Nominated by Amanda Vito
Bryan Kennedy, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I would like to take a moment to formally recognize nurse Bryan Kennedy for the exceptional care and professionalism he demonstrated while assisting my grandmother and me during our recent visit for a flu vaccination.
Nurse Kennedy truly went above and beyond. He assisted my grandmother with her coat and took the time to carefully explain every step of the process before administering the vaccine. As my grandmother suffers from dementia, clear communication and a calm demeanor are extremely important. Nurse Kennedy was patient, compassionate, and attentive, ensuring she remained calm, comfortable, and even smiling throughout the visit.
During the appointment, I mentioned that I also needed a flu shot but had been informed at the front desk that vaccinations were limited to patients with scheduled appointments. I explained that I wanted to receive the flu shot to help keep my grandmother safe and healthy. Without hesitation, nurse Kennedy stated he would be able to accommodate me. His willingness to assist demonstrated not only professionalism but genuine care and understanding.
When I offered to get him breakfast or coffee as a gesture of appreciation, he kindly declined and stated it was not necessary. His actions reflected integrity, compassion, and dedication to patient care.
In times when compassion can sometimes feel rare, nurse Kennedy exemplified the very best of health care professionalism. My family and I are deeply grateful for his kindness and commitment.
Nominated by Dewayne Williams
Adena Kohler, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Adena stayed in the hospital for over 20 hours during the blizzard. She helped out on the floors with whatever they needed help with and still showed up for her shift and worked without complaining.Nominated by Colleen Liljeblad
Debbie Kwan, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Debbie was my labor and delivery nurse when I had my second son. I was feeling unwell and defeated after a long night when she entered my room with an infectious smile and a vibrant, upbeat demeanor. She completely turned my day around. She made it her top priority to help me get comfortable and ensure I got some rest before delivery.
To this day, I still think of Debbie. I still tell people about her. I tell people about my experience, about how much she helped me. She will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I truly will never be able to repay her for her thoughtfulness, attention, and expertise. I wish every patient could have someone like Debbie!
Nominated by Caroline Torney
Karen Lagare, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Karen Mae Lagare. With 28 years of nursing experience spanning intensive care, medical-surgical, and, most notably, hemodialysis settings, she exemplifies the highest standards of clinical excellence, professionalism, and compassionate, patient-centered care.
This exceptional nurse is widely respected as a dedicated team player and a steady presence in high-acuity environments. Her calm, positive demeanor fosters confidence and reassurance for both patients and colleagues, even during the most challenging clinical situations. She brings clarity, organization, and thoughtful judgment to complex care, making her an invaluable member of the interdisciplinary team.
As a dialysis nurse, Karen has continued to make meaningful contributions to patient care and unit operations. As an active member of the Hemodialysis Council, she demonstrates a strong commitment to advancing nursing practice and supporting unit-based excellence. One of her most notable accomplishments includes her role in implementing “Grab and Go” dialysis packs — bedside kits containing frequently used nursing supplies. This initiative reduced clutter and waste, improved workflow efficiency, and supported cost containment, with a focus on value-driven care.
She also contributed to a quality improvement project to reorganize and clean the dialysis supply room, enhancing safety, efficiency, and staff satisfaction. Additionally, she has assisted with revising hemodialysis nursing policies to ensure evidence-based practice and alignment with current standards. By consistently demonstrating clinical excellence, compassionate patient-centered care, and quiet yet powerful leadership as a resource nurse in the hemodialysis unit, she inspires both colleagues and patients alike. Karen’s dedication, quality improvement efforts, and unwavering commitment to excellence make her truly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Andrea Eder
Hannah Landerholm, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Hannah Landerholm is the nurse manager for the West Campus Operating Room at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. This is a very busy Level 1 trauma center. Our trauma patients count on us to be at the top of our game at a moment’s notice. It’s Hannah who makes this happen.
From emergency laparotomies and serious closed head injuries to life-threatening pelvic traumas — it takes a true professional to run an operating room. To make a trauma center run well is a step beyond even that. Hannah does it with grace and professionalism. You simply cannot have a trauma center without committed nurses. Hannah personifies that, day in and day out. She is an unsung hero.
No one notices who makes things happen when everything runs smoothly — but every trauma patient we care for benefits from Hannah’s compassion and her unwavering commitment to the very best in patient care.
Nominated by John Wixted
Jenny Longval, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I have had the pleasure of working with Jenny Longval for close to four years. She exemplifies the mission of nursing at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center.
I find Jenny to have all the qualities of an excellent nurse: she is intelligent, compassionate, and relentless in obtaining the best possible outcomes for her patients. She treats each one of her patients as if they were a family member, even those who are challenging. She has a unique ability to troubleshoot complex problems and find effective solutions. She is an advocate for her patients from the moment she arrives in the office (which is early, as she commutes from Falmouth) until she leaves in the evening. She listens to her colleagues when they are having a difficult day, and they walk away knowing that she heard and cares for them. She is detail-oriented and orchestrates her patients’ care by communicating with the necessary disciplines so that her patients achieve the best outcome. She does all of this with a smile, upbeat attitude, and calming voice. She is always looking toward improving her skills and broadening her scope of practice.
Everyone with whom she works praises her ability to create an environment that is collaborative, open, and welcoming. She treats everyone as equals and values the contribution of all staff equally. She leads by example and raises the level of care in our office just by being herself.
Jenny is extremely passionate about providing patient education, which is so vital to patient care and empowers patients to better care for themselves. She always follows up with our patients to ensure they are receiving the care that they need.
Jenny is a member of the unit-based council. She is also a past recipient of a DAISY Award, which speaks to the level of exceptional care she consistently provides. She makes me proud to not only be a nurse, but to work in the Dedham obstetrics and gynecology office alongside her.
She sincerely deserves to be recognized for all she is and does for our patients, peers, and the nursing profession. Jenny is instrumental in keeping our office running smoothly and patients receiving a high quality of care.
Nominated by Jeannie Nickerson
Jane Martin and Casey Montgomery, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Casey Montgomery and Jane Martin are two of the most talented individuals that we have ever had the pleasure of meeting. We cannot even begin to express how much they do for their patients, much less their team and co-workers. We have learned so much from them in our short time at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. Their guidance has truly meant the world to us, and we are very thankful to have them on our team.
Casey and Jane, your tremendous work and perseverance do not go unnoticed, and every day we get to work with you is a blast!
Nominated by Bonnie Cimack and Elizabeth Eaton
Keyana Miller, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Keyana is so great with all our patients. She can calm anyone down or make anyone laugh. We are proud to have her.
Nominated by John Munger
Lauren Mills, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Lauren is always such a supportive, calm, positive colleague. She advocates for the patients she cares for every single day and makes the best decisions for them no matter the situation.
Nominated by Susan Papazian
Jim Mooney, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Jim demonstrates extraordinary skill in caring for our patients facing gynecologic cancers, navigating them through one of the most challenging consults of their lives. Jim provides comprehensive support across the entire care continuum — from diagnosis through treatment. Jim’s ability to address the complex physical, emotional, and psychosocial needs unique to gynecologic cancer patients sets him apart as a truly exceptional clinician. He takes the time to listen, reassure, and coordinate care with compassion and patience.
Nominated by Nicole Chappell
Mario Moreno, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
It is with great respect and enthusiasm that I nominate Mario Moreno for Salute to Nurses. As a resource nurse, he consistently exemplifies exceptional leadership, clinical expertise, and unwavering commitment to patient safety and staff support.
Mario demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities, particularly in his role as resource nurse, in which he serves as a critical support for in-unit bedside nurses and the interdisciplinary team. He is calm, decisive, and highly knowledgeable, providing guidance and assistance that promote safe, efficient, and high-quality patient care. His presence brings confidence to the unit, especially during high-stress or emergent situations.
One notable example of his excellence occurred when he served as the resource nurse during a code blue on the unit. During this critical event, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, situational awareness, and composure. He effectively coordinated care, supported the code team, and ensured clear communication throughout the emergency. His ability to remain focused and organized under pressure was instrumental in maintaining order and supporting both patient care and staff during a life-threatening situation.
Beyond emergency response, he consistently goes above and beyond in his role — anticipating unit needs, assisting colleagues without hesitation, and serving as a trusted clinical resource. He leads by example, models professionalism, and fosters a culture of teamwork and safety.
Zinat Nassirzadeh, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I’ve been working with Zinat for almost nine years. She is an extremely hardworking nurse, never says no, is always available, and is loved by patients. Her dedication and love for what she does don’t go unnoticed. Not only is she great with her patients, she is an amazing co-worker! She is super creative and giving. We get the best gifts from Zinat!
Nominated by Angeline Molina
Annalyn Ninobla, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
This nurse demonstrates exceptional patient care by combining high-level clinical competency with profound compassion and advocacy, ensuring patient safety and trust. By actively listening, they foster a secure environment, allowing patients to feel understood without judgment, which builds essential trust. They serve as a vital advocate, breaking down complex medical information and giving patients a voice in their treatment. Furthermore, this nurse demonstrates commitment through empathetic actions, such as comforting patients and supporting families during difficult moments.
Nominated by Leandra Ninobla
Mary Ann Ouelette, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Mary Ann is a colleague of mine who works as a lactation consultant. She worked the entire weekend and then continued through Monday when Boston was hit with a blizzard. To ensure that patients continued to receive the breastfeeding support they deserved and needed, she stayed close to the hospital rather than going home.
Although Mary Ann could have left after her Monday shift, she chose to stay an additional night when she realized that I would be the only lactation consultant on duty with a large number of patients requiring care. She was scheduled to stay until 11 a.m., but extended her shift until noon to ensure the rest of the day was adequately covered and that every patient was seen.
Breastfeeding is a skill that many mothers are just beginning to learn during a very short postpartum stay — often only two days. At our hospital, many of these mothers are also managing other medical concerns, yet they are deeply committed to giving their babies the best possible start through breastfeeding, which supports infant immunity and overall health.
It would have been extremely challenging for one lactation consultant to manage the volume of patients that day. Mary Ann stepped in willingly and graciously, as she has done many times before. This was not the first time she has come in on her days off or stayed beyond her scheduled hours to ensure that all patients’ needs were met.
Nominated by Jeanne Hanlon
Tina Pierro, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Tina always goes above and beyond to treat all our laboring patients with respect and care. Her hard work and dedication have led to countless patients having safe and healthy deliveries of their new babies. She is a tireless optimist and cheerleader for our patients. Thank you, Tina!
Nominated by Sarah Hanson
Kimberly Redman, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Kimberly has been an exceptional research nurse throughout my time working in research at Beth Israel. She demonstrates excellent patient care and a strong work ethic on a daily basis. Her warm and humorous personality always makes life in the office better, and she makes a point to connect with all her colleagues.
Transitioning from the floor to research is not an easy task, but Kimberly has done so seamlessly. From initial consents to study follow-ups, Kimberly makes sure patients are comfortable and informed and ensures they receive the best care possible.
Nominated by Madhavan Das
Adam Rojek, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Adam’s compassion infuses all of his great clinical care. Patients who come to see us for thoracic surgery and interventional pulmonology care have medical issues which are life-threatening and quality-of-life-altering. Adam has been a rock for these patients. They know that he will go that extra step for them. While it is not uncommon for patients to tell me their thoughts about the great nursing staff at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, the percentage of patients who give this positive feedback about Adam is unusually high. Moreover, they say things like “Please don’t ever let him go” and that he is an invaluable member of the team — he is just that good.
Adam is a great ambassador to our surgical patients, our referring providers, the multiple teams that thoracic and interventional pulmonology interact with (such as ear, nose, and throat, gastrointestinal, radiology, medical and radiation oncology, general pulmonology, and pathology). He understands the clinical problems and the human problems extremely well, and his people skills are essential to his excellence in managing complex situations. He has served as a mentor to other nurses, advanced practice providers, and administrative staff in our division. He is a very enjoyable colleague to work with, someone who gets it and never loses his cool.
Of all the great things I hear about Adam, the one I hear the most from everyone is the exact thing I myself have said to many patients: “We are lucky to have him. He is awesome.”
Nominated by Sidhu Gangadharan
Melissa Shrestha, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Melissa is incredibly devoted to our department and our patients, and it shows. Patients call and ask for her by name, even going as far to request she be with them for the entirety of their visit. She is a gem.
Deborah Streeter, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Deb has worked at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center as a nurse in cardiac thoracic surgery for 46 years. This year, she is retiring, and I want to wish her all the best. She is the unit “mom,” always providing everyone with snacks, candy, and chicken salad! I will probably lose a few pounds come this April. She is the kind of nurse who takes the time to wash a patient’s hair, joke around, and put them at ease. I am nominating her as a farewell and to let her know how appreciated and loved she is by everyone here on Klarman 7.
Nominated by Andrea Clement
Deb’s career has always been one of giving of herself. As she faces her retirement soon, I wanted to recognize and acknowledge her kindness and dedication to both her patients and co-workers. Deb has been a huge part of creating the cohesive culture of our cardiac thoracic unit. She is an excellent nurse, exhibiting warmth, knowledge, and ingenuity in her care. As the daughter of a Deaconess nurse and a high school principal, she proudly shared their influence on her. She has sat with patients on countless occasions, listening to their fears and concerns. She has a keen sense of people and what they need, whether it be making them more comfortable, getting them food after the food service has closed, or injecting her warm sense of humor.
As a resource and charge nurse for many years, she has been a great support to all staff members. She is always willing to pitch in. She has MacGyver-like skills, never shying away from fixing a problem. She could create any kind of adaptive tube connector when issues arose. She is that person who, rather than complaining about a wobbly table, simply folds something up under the leg. What began as her bringing a few treats on the weekends turned into our unit candy drawer, which later became her providing bagels and coffee for all in addition to snacks. This has, over the years, been the only way some nurses would get to eat on some of their busier days.
Although she has had her own trials and losses over the years, she is usually the first to organize a condolence or care package for others. In short, we should all take a page from the book of Deb, help each other, and care for each other and our patients. We salute you, Deb, and your compassion for others.
Nominated by Deirdre Mealey
Wendy Szeto, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Wendy is an incredible nurse and an invaluable asset to our oncology team on Shapiro 9 at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center. She is especially vital to the care of our patients within the Chinese community. With the weight of a cancer diagnosis on their shoulders, a language barrier can be debilitating. When patients are unable to communicate their symptoms easily, it can leave them vulnerable and at risk of serious outcomes. Wendy consistently goes out of her way to help with translation so patients and families can better understand their care. Even when her own schedule is busy, she takes on more than just the role of treatment nurse; she is a navigator, coordinator, administrator, educator, and a true advocate for all patients. Wendy’s presence makes all of our patients feel at ease, especially those in the Chinese-speaking community. Just knowing that she is here brings a huge sense of comfort to an already stressful day.
Wendy is soft-spoken, gentle, and genuinely caring. She always takes the time to listen and advocate for her patients, making sure they feel heard and supported. She is also an incredibly intelligent and highly skilled oncology nurse with strong clinical judgment. Wendy is dependable, thoughtful, and deeply committed to caring for cancer patients. She is a joy to be around, creating a pleasant environment for her colleagues.
Wendy cares for patients during some of the scariest and most uncertain moments of their lives. The work is emotionally taxing, yet she always approaches it with so much kindness and a smile. She makes a meaningful difference every day and absolutely deserves to be recognized.
Nominated by Audrey and Shapiro 9 infusion nurse Joseph
Marleny Teixeira, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
It is my pleasure to nominate Marleny Teixeira for recognition of her outstanding contributions to patient care at Bowdoin Street Health Center. Marleny exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate, clinically skilled, and team‑oriented nurse whose commitment to our patients and colleagues consistently elevates the quality of care we provide.
Marleny is a remarkable team player. Countless times, especially during periods when we are short on medical assistants, Marleny steps in without hesitation to ensure that patient flow remains smooth and efficient. She rooms patients, assists with clinical tasks, and manages competing demands with grace, all while maintaining a warm and reassuring presence. Because of her efforts, patients experience shorter wait times and feel genuinely cared for from the moment they enter our clinic.
Her compassion is evident in every interaction. Patients frequently comment on the kindness and attention she shows them. One memorable example is a young boy who declared that he “loves” her. This is due directly to the genuine trust and comfort she inspires. Marleny’s ability to connect with patients of all ages demonstrates her exceptional communication skills and her intuitive sense of what each individual needs to feel safe and understood.
Clinically, Marleny is highly competent and consistently reliable. She approaches every task with diligence and ensures that treatments, procedures, and follow‑up steps are completed accurately and thoughtfully. Moreover, she is a strong advocate for her patients, speaking up when something requires clarification, additional support, or a more patient‑centered approach.
Nominated by Frinny Polanco
Barbara Turk, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
It is with great respect and admiration that I nominate Barbara Turk for recognition of her exceptional contributions to our infectious disease division care team. With more than 28 years of nursing experience, she exemplifies the very best in our nursing team. She is compassionate and demonstrates a deep commitment to patient-centered care.
Throughout Barbara’s career, she has consistently demonstrated extraordinary care and empathy for patients while navigating some of our most vulnerable populations. Patients with any type of infectious disease often face fear, and she meets each individual with dignity, empathy, and patience. She takes time to listen, educate, and reassure patients and their families.
Barbara’s clinical skills are vital to the care team. She collaborates seamlessly with our providers, pharmacists, and support staff, fostering a culture of teamwork and great respect. She leads by example, offering mentorship and encouragement to our new team members, while modeling professionalism, accountability, and compassion. Her presence and strength elevate the team’s confidence in taking care of our patients.
She truly demonstrates a deep sense of purpose, and her commitment to her field makes our infectious disease division a special place.
Nominated by Katrina Harris
Roanna Villaroman, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
I am honored to nominate Roanna Villaroman for Salute to Nurses in recognition of her extraordinary contributions as a dialysis clinical educator and her unwavering commitment to patient safety, staff excellence, and compassionate care.
In a field as complex and high-risk as dialysis, Roanna serves as a trusted expert, mentor, advocate, and chair of the Hemodialysis Council. She is responsible for educating and supporting nurses and technicians across hemodialysis, ensuring the highest standards of evidence-based practice, regulatory compliance, and patient-centered care. Her depth of clinical knowledge is matched only by her ability to teach with clarity, patience, and respect, empowering staff at every level to grow in confidence and competence.
What truly sets Roanna apart is the impact she makes leading by example, going beyond and above. She consistently identifies gaps in practice and proactively develops education, competency validation, and quality improvement initiatives that directly improve patient outcomes. Whether implementing updated infection control protocols, supporting new dialysis technologies, or coaching staff through challenging clinical scenarios, Roanna leads with calm expertise and an unwavering focus on safety and dignity for patients.
She is also a fierce advocate for patients living with chronic kidney disease, ensuring that education extends beyond staff to patients and families, helping them understand their treatment, make informed decisions, and feel supported during what is often a lifelong and emotionally taxing journey. Her compassion is evident in every interaction, and patients routinely express gratitude for the trust and reassurance Roanna provides.
Equally important is her role as a mentor and role model. She fosters a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and accountability, inspiring nurses to pursue excellence and professional growth. Colleagues seek out Roanna not only for her knowledge, but for her integrity, approachability, and genuine investment in others’ success.
Salute to Nurses celebrates nurses who go above and beyond to make a meaningful difference, and Roanna exemplifies this spirit every day. Her leadership, dedication, and compassion have strengthened the dialysis program, elevated nursing practice, and positively transformed the lives of countless patients and colleagues. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.
Paulina Vo, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Paulina demonstrates compassion towards her fellow co-workers and, most importantly, her patients in every way possible. She is the definition of going above and beyond — in small projects that make workflow easier, as well as involving herself in committees and agencies that improve the health and safety of patients. She is a curious mind and an extremely hard worker, which makes her a pleasure to be around in the operating room every day. She brings a joyous smile to every work assignment, while planning a co-worker outing or celebration, and even while performing the most minuscule tasks. She is a force and a bright light that supports progress and improvement!
Nominated by Anja Vujinic
Olivia Walsh, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Olivia Walsh is a shining star! Olivia was there for me during the births of both of my sons. Olivia is a kind, compassionate, and knowledgeable nurse who is a fierce patient advocate and dedicated team member. Olivia went out of her way, coming in to support me after hours, during both of my deliveries. She is a unicorn — she played all the roles! She was a nurse, a cheerleader, an advocate for me and my babies, a support person for my husband, a photographer, a birthing playlist enthusiast, and one heck of a “Happy Birthday” singer as the babies entered the world.
The love and genuine gratefulness I feel towards Olivia Walsh is something I wish every patient could experience while in the hospital. Olivia is truly one of a kind, and she made my hospital experiences something I look back on with fond memories and tremendous gratitude. Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is truly blessed to have Olivia Walsh as one of its nurses, and I am blessed to have the pleasure of knowing her! All these years later, I still think of Olivia all the time, and I am so thankful for the role she played in both of my deliveries. Thank you, Olivia!
Hannah Wiley, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Last year, I was admitted weeks before my due date with severe preeclampsia and ended up staying in the hospital until I delivered. I had two small kids at home, and being away from them while pregnant and sick was devastating. I felt like my body was failing me. I was sad, angry, lonely, and honestly felt like I had no control over anything.
I’m a former emergency room nurse, so I’m used to chaos — running around, multitasking, constantly moving. During my hospitalization, I had to do the exact opposite. I was stuck in a room, forced to slow down, and it felt like I was losing pieces of who I was.
Hannah from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center’s antepartum unit was my nurse every shift she worked, and from the start, she felt more like a sister than just my nurse. She didn’t just come in to check my blood pressure and leave. She would sit down and talk with me. We talked about everything, not just delivery plans and neonatal intensive care unit stays, but the shows we were watching, skincare, and the funny things our toddlers were doing. Those conversations meant more than she probably knows. When I saw she was coming back for another shift, I instantly felt at ease. It gave me something to look forward to.
She made my hospital room feel less sterile and more like a small version of home. She encouraged me to bring things from home and hang up pictures of my kids and their drawings. When I felt like I was stuck in a dark hole, she was the one reaching down to pull me out.
When I found out I had to deliver emergently at almost 35 weeks, everything felt chaotic. After my obstetrics team left the room, Hannah stayed with me. She made sure I asked every question I needed to. She reminded me that I still had a voice and encouraged me to keep as much of my birth plan as possible. She was calm, steady, and grounding in a moment when I felt anything but.
Hannah is exactly the kind of nurse you hope for: cool, calm, supportive, and someone who makes you feel safe enough to say what you’re really feeling. If it weren’t for her, my hospital stay would have been so much darker. Instead, I look back and remember the light she brought into those really hard days. She made an impact on me that I will never forget.
Nominated by Danielle O’Neil
Victoria Woodward, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Vickie is one of the most compassionate nurses I have ever met. She spreads compassion like wildfire through her words and advocates fiercely for her patients. She champions her patients, putting them first above all. Any patient and co-worker are lucky to have someone like Vickie on their side. She deserves the world’s accolades for her kindness and heart.
Nominated by Madison O’Gryzek
Ashley Xayavong, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Ashley’s compassionate, gentle demeanor made a challenging experience feel manageable and safe. She went above and beyond to ensure I was comfortable and emotionally supported, taking the time to explain procedures clearly and answering all my questions with patience. Her attention to detail and unwavering dedication to her patients shone through in everything she did, leaving a lasting, positive impression on me and my family. I am truly grateful to have had such a dedicated, skilled, and warm-hearted nurse during my recovery.
Nominated by Geewa Gunawardana
Daisy Macasaquit, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center Healthcare Associates Primary Care
It is with great appreciation and admiration that we acknowledge Daisy for her exceptional contributions to Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) Healthcare Associates Primary Care. Daisy embodies the very best of what it means to be a nurse, a colleague, and a role model. Her dedication to both patients and peers sets a standard that inspires everyone around her.
Daisy consistently strives to build up the team, fostering a sense of cohesiveness that strengthens our entire practice. She prioritizes her peers with the same care and intention that she gives to her patients, creating an environment where everyone feels supported, valued, and empowered to succeed. Her loyalty, flexibility, and reliability make her someone the team can always count on.
She recently completed the Ambulatory Care Nursing Certification (AMB-BC). This is a prestigious credential from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) that validates a nurse’s clinical knowledge in outpatient settings. She attended the 2024 annual conference in Chicago, featuring extensive sessions on ambulatory care nursing.
Beyond her daily responsibilities, Daisy has volunteered on the Professional Development Committee at BIDMC in the past years. This year, she is active with the unit-based council and is the communication coordinator, a role in which she helps highlight the accomplishments of our department, as well as pass pertinent information to other committees in the hospital. Her outgoing nature and ability to build trust make her a natural connector, someone who brings people together and encourages collaboration.
Daisy’s thoughtfulness shines in countless ways. She shares her artistic talents freely, often creating notes of praise and gratitude that brighten the days of her colleagues. She works with a smile, brings positivity to every interaction, and continually thinks outside the box to help improve workflows and the overall experience for both staff and patients.
Her presence contributes to a productive, uplifting environment, and her commitment to the team’s success is felt every day. Daisy is not only an outstanding nurse — she is a catalyst for growth, unity, and excellence.
We are deeply grateful for all she brings to our office and proud to recognize her for the remarkable impact she makes every day.
Nominated by nursing team and health care associates, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Sara Jemiolo, Beth Israel Lahey Health At Home
I work at Lahey myself, and it makes me proud to be an employee when I see what wonderful care my 87-year-old mom receives from Sara Jemiolo.
My mom is a resident at The Herrick House in Beverly, Mass. We lost my dad in June, so there have been a lot of changes for our mom, giving up her home and moving into a strange new place. Sara Jemiolo is a nurse with Beth Israel Lahey Health At Home who has seen my mom on several occasions. She has been a constant for my mom.
My mom has been in and out of the hospital five times since Thanksgiving. Each time she is discharged back to The Herrick House, Sara is the nurse who cares for her. My family cannot say enough about Sara. She is the kindest, most compassionate girl we have encountered since my mom moved into The Herrick House back in the fall. Each time she visits my mom, she spends time with her, not just caring for her but listening to her as well. My mom has told us several times how sweet Sara is and how she just loves her.
She is very effective in communicating as well. Every time we have a question and reach out to her, we get an immediate response back and she always has the answers to our questions. I just recently sent an email to her manager commending her, as she truly is a superstar. Oftentimes, I think elderly patients don’t get treated the way we would like to see them treated as they age, and especially when living in assisted living facilities, but this is not the case with Sara. She makes my mom feel not just seen but heard, and we never worry about Mom when we know it is a day that Sara will be visiting her.
She always advocates for our mom. If there is an issue, she immediately reaches out to her primary care provider for direction. Honestly, she just has been fabulous. I cannot say enough about her and the Beth Israel Lahey Health At Home program in general. It has been a lifesaver for our mom.
Nominated by Christine Boles
Meghan Kennedy, Beth Israel Lahey Health Primary Care
Meg practices nursing with a rare balance of skill, empathy, and professionalism. In a busy family medicine setting, she is often the calm, steady presence patients rely on during moments of stress, confusion, or vulnerability. Her strong clinical judgment ensures safe, effective care, while her compassion ensures patients feel genuinely seen and supported.
Meg is an exceptional communicator. She takes the time to listen carefully, explains medical information clearly and patiently, and ensures patients understand their care plans. She anticipates concerns, follows up diligently, and builds trust through consistency and honesty. Patients frequently express confidence in her guidance, knowing she will advocate for them and help navigate an often complex health care system.
What truly sets Meg apart is her deep commitment to advocacy. She goes above and beyond to coordinate care, clarify recommendations, and speak up for patients who need additional support. She understands that quality nursing care extends beyond clinical tasks — it includes protecting patient dignity, addressing barriers to care, and ensuring no one feels overlooked.
Meg Kennedy embodies the very heart of nursing. Her dedication, integrity, and compassion positively impact patients, families, and colleagues every day. She represents the best of the profession and is deeply deserving of recognition through Salute to Nurses.
Nominated by David Lewis
Anya Lane, Beth Israel Lahey Health Primary Care
Anya is universally admired throughout our office. Patients frequently volunteer how wonderful she is, often commenting on her kindness, attentiveness, and the genuine care she shows during every interaction. She listens carefully and takes the time to ensure that each patient feels heard, respected, and comfortable. Whether she is adjusting a chair, offering a pillow, raising or lowering the exam table, or bringing a glass of water, Anya consistently goes out of her way to create a supportive and reassuring environment.
At the conclusion of appointments, Anya takes special care to review next steps in detail with patients. She helps them understand testing instructions, specimen collection procedures, insurance confirmations, and prior authorizations. She also assists with important documentation such as handicap placards and health care proxy forms, ensuring patients leave the office with clarity and confidence about their care plan.
One of Anya’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to read patients’ emotions and respond with empathy. She notices when someone appears anxious or discouraged and gently offers reassurance or asks thoughtful questions so concerns can be addressed. It is not uncommon for her to call a patient one or two days after a visit simply to check in and make sure they are feeling better. These small but meaningful gestures leave a lasting impression and truly embody the spirit of patient-centered care.
From a provider’s perspective, Anya is exceptionally organized, proactive, and dependable. She prepares charts thoroughly and consistently identifies when preventive screenings, vaccines, or other care needs are due. She remains calm under pressure and has a remarkable ability to prioritize urgent tasks. When something requires prompt attention, she communicates effectively through whatever method is needed — verbal reminders, Epic messaging, or quick notes — to ensure nothing is overlooked. She also completes as much of the required paperwork as possible in advance, helping reduce the administrative burden for providers.
Equally important is the positive energy Anya brings to our workplace. Her radiant smile and cheerful demeanor brighten the office each day. She naturally embraces a team-based approach and frequently assists her colleagues without being asked. Her willingness to help others and her dedication to the success of the entire team make her an invaluable member of our practice.
Anya exemplifies the very best qualities of the nursing profession: compassion, professionalism, attentiveness, and commitment to excellence in patient care. I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Elisabeth Bassler
Rachel Mulligan, Beth Israel Lahey Health Primary Care – Medfield Family Medicine
Rachel is a seasoned nurse with over ten years of experience who we have been so privileged to have as part of our team at Beth Israel Medfield Family Medicine. Every single day, she brings smiles to patients with her patience, infectious positive attitude, expertise and knowledge, and calm and compassionate approach to every situation we encounter. If patients or staff ever have any questions, she always makes herself approachable. She constantly reassures patients and colleagues alike, and through her impeccable work ethic and consistency, she brings sunshine and cheer to hard, demanding work in medicine.
Nominated by Victoria Nguyen
Mary Ramos, Beth Israel Lahey Health Primary Care
I work with Mary, and every day she works tirelessly on behalf of patients, spending as much time as they need in order to answer every question they have. Whether it’s crushing our prior authorizations to make sure the patients have approval for the medications they need or calling a patient to triage their situation and advise them, or even giving injections to people, she does it with aplomb. She’s the backbone of our office, and I wish that nominating her for Salute to Nurses was even close to the recognition that she deserves.
Nominated by Brenna Sanford
Lilly Shallam Connolly, Beth Israel Lahey Health Primary Care
Lilly is a regional nurse manager and has been a strong nurse partner for the last four years. She consistently demonstrates compassion and clinical excellence in each and every interaction. Her patients feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for, and she maintains the highest standards of safety and professionalism. She is also a strong advocate for both patients and nursing staff. She leads with integrity and fairness, earning the trust of colleagues and fostering a supportive team environment. Her decisions are thoughtful and always centered on what is best for patients and staff alike.
Despite the demands of her administrative responsibilities, she continues to provide hands-on, compassionate care. She balances leadership and clinical duties seamlessly, modeling the very best of the nursing practice.
Nominated by Grace Perez-Lirio
Wendy Storch, Beth Israel Lahey Health Primary Care
Wendy Storch is an exceptional nurse leader. She consistently demonstrates strong empathy, excellent work ethic, and reliability in all aspects of her role. Her focus on patient-centered care is evident in every interaction, and she upholds the highest standards of professionalism and compassion.
In addition to her clinical excellence, she is deeply committed to education and collaboration. She fosters meaningful partnerships among nurses, physicians, and interdisciplinary teams, strengthening both morale and quality of care. She has become a trusted and steady source of support for many colleagues, offering guidance, encouragement, and thoughtful leadership. Notably, she inspires and mentors younger and aspiring nurses, helping to shape the next generation of compassionate and skilled professionals. Her leadership is grounded in integrity, fairness, and dedication to both patients and staff.
Laura Deighan, Beverly Hospital
Laura, my sister and a nurse at Beverly Hospital since 2007, donated her kidney in order for my dad to find a match for a kidney transplant. My dad had his first kidney transplant on Aug. 18, 1983. After 40 years, his one kidney was failing. After going through the workup for a transplant, he found out he needed heart surgery before he would be eligible. He had triple bypass surgery and made a full recovery.
After his recovery, my sister, a mother of two young kids, was the first to be tested to be a donor and, unfortunately, was not a match. But she looked into the donor exchange and selflessly insisted on donating a kidney so my dad could find a match. On Sept. 9, 2025, she donated her kidney to an anonymous recipient. And on Oct. 16, 2025, my dad received a kidney from an anonymous donor, all because of Laura.
They both recovered wonderfully and our family could not be more grateful for what she did. She helped to save two lives on Sept. 9, 2025 — our dad’s and a complete stranger’s. So although he was not her patient, I felt that I needed to nominate her for what she has done for our family and for advocating the donor exchange, which is a truly wonderful program that has the opportunity to save lives.
Nominated by Kelly Rafeal
Anna Lordan, Beverly Hospital
It has been such an honor and privilege to have worked side by side with Anna for 10 years. She recently left my unit and her absence is beyond felt. Her soothing voice for calming down anxious patients, her loving care for those who cannot care for themselves, and her pure soul make her a nurse who cannot be duplicated or replaced. She dedicates her life to her patients and cares for each one as if they were her own flesh and blood.
Not only were her patients well cared for, but the kind-natured way about her always made for a wonderfully soothing energy in such a chaotic environment. Any health care unit and patient will be blessed to have her. This world needs more Annas.
Nominated by Arianna Marquis
Karen Wieber, Beverly Hospital
For more than 25 years, I’ve had the privilege of working beside Karen, and every day, she reminds me what true nursing looks like. Beverly Hospital is incredibly fortunate to have her. Her patients feel it immediately – her calm presence, her anticipation of their needs before they even speak, her way of making them feel safe and seen.
When I visit patients, I always know when Karen is their nurse. They say things like, “She’s on top of everything,” and “She just knows what I need.” They rarely touch the call bell because she’s already there, offering comfort, connection, and extraordinary attention to detail.
Karen’s compassion is not something she turns on and off; it’s who she is. She’s our most recognized nurse in patient and family surveys, and countless nurses have told me their goal is simply “to be like Karen.”
This recognition is long overdue. Karen doesn’t just care for patients. She changes lives, inspires her peers, and elevates the entire profession through the quiet power of her kindness.
Nominated by Carole Lestienne
Kelliann Banaian, Boston Children’s Hospital
Kelliann is a cardiac intensive care unit nurse at Boston Children’s. She became part of my extremely medically complex son’s care in 2023, when he had to have a tracheostomy placed. She has gone above and beyond since day one to be sure Micah is extremely well cared for while she is on shift. Even if she is not assigned to him, she makes sure the nurse who has him is well informed on his needs and care.
She has true compassion for her patients and their families. If it’s not the patient that she’s helping, it’s the families. She is the absolute best nurse to have as an advocate. Micah will be 4 in June, and Kelliann has been there for us since before he was a year old and put on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). If it wasn’t for Kelliann, Micah would not be where he is today. The doctors and surgeons are amazing and did their part to keep Micah with us as well, but if it was not for Kelliann’s remarkable nursing skills, competency, and overall love for her job, Micah would not be here today.
Nominated by Kristi Snyder
Grace Borell, Boston Children’s Hospital
Grace was our son’s first nurse when we arrived at Boston Children’s. He was 2 days old and we had traveled from out of state for his postnatal congenital heart disease diagnosis to be treated. We were first-time parents and scared beyond words of what was to come. Grace greeted us with such a calm and caring demeanor. She immediately set us up with services provided by the hospital while caring for our son.
Every time the doctors did rounds, she spent time going over what had been discussed with us in simpler terms. She would spend time with us if we had questions about what was happening with our son. She even went so far as to draw a colored diagram of a normal heart and what our son’s heart looked like for us to better understand his diagnosis.
Grace gave such great care to our son and also looked out for our well-being. Being freshly postpartum, I was experiencing physical challenges myself, and Grace noticed. She recommended that I be seen at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital next door because she was concerned about me. Taking her advice, I ended up being admitted and truly needing care. If it wasn’t for Grace, I would have never gotten the care I needed.
Grace created a calm and comfortable environment when we were experiencing such a difficult time. After moving units, Grace continued to check in on us, which showed she truly cares about her patients. When we return to Boston Children’s for our son’s heart surgery, we hope to be lucky enough to have Grace as his nurse again. Grace is an amazing nurse and we cannot thank her enough for her wonderful care and guidance.
Nominated by Meghan Mulholland
We had the honor of getting Grace for about a week of our cardiac intensive care unit stay. Grace is wise beyond her years. She is incredibly detail-oriented, intelligent, compassionate, and motivated. She educated us thoroughly on what was going on with our daughter, the medications she was on, and how they could impact various vitals. She showed up every day with energy and clear contentment for her job and caring for our daughter.
She advocated for our daughter and our desires when other providers fell flat or we wanted something specific. From the bottom of my heart, I can say that I have never trusted anyone besides our surgeon more with my child’s safety and the ability to keep her alive and well during the hardest time of her life. Any child and family under her care could not be any luckier.
Nominated by Amelia Pena
Grace is a hero! She showed remarkable levels of composure and excellent communication during my stay. I felt like I was in the best hands the entire time and trusted her care indefinitely.
Nominated by Sam Wilson
Christian Brambila, Boston Children’s Hospital
I would like to take a moment to recognize an extraordinary nurse who has made a truly meaningful difference in my son’s care. As a parent of a child with sensory sensitivities and high anxiety, medical treatments can often be overwhelming and stressful. However, this nurse consistently approaches my son with a level of patience, compassion, and understanding that goes far beyond what is expected.
Infusion days can be particularly difficult for children, especially those who struggle with sensory overload. The sounds, equipment, and unfamiliar environment can quickly become too much. What makes this nurse so exceptional is his ability to recognize those challenges and meet my son exactly where he is. He approaches him gently, speaks calmly, and allows him the time he needs to feel safe and comfortable before beginning any part of the process.
Through his kindness and skill, he has built a level of trust with my son that is incredibly important during treatments. That trust has made a tremendous difference in helping him get through each infusion.
With my other son, who also receives treatment for his immune deficiency, Christian always takes the time to connect with him as a person. Whether it’s taking a few moments to chat with him, asking about things he enjoys, or playing a quick game, those small acts of kindness mean so much. He helps make a child who spends most of their time at home or in a hospital feel like a kid and be seen as a kid, not just a medical diagnosis.
Nurses like him are rare. His compassion, patience, and ability to connect with children who need extra care and understanding are truly remarkable. Our family is deeply grateful for the care he provides and the positive impact he has had on both of my sons’ experiences.
Nominated by Ashley Bump
Abigail Burger, Boston Children’s Hospital
My son had a 20-hour surgery to reattach a partially severed hand. When we were able to see him in the intensive care unit, we were greeted by Abby, who was extremely helpful in getting us settled in. She explained his status, medications, and the goals for his treatment in great depth.
She was attentive to both my son’s care and my husband’s and my well-being. She was instrumental in getting care quickly when she thought something was off, which led to another surgery. I am confident the outcome wouldn’t have been the same if another nurse had been assigned to us.
She was always upbeat and friendly, asked great questions about pain management, and always was very proactive and detail-oriented during shift changes. We were in the intensive care unit for 12 days. Every nurse assigned to us was great, but we all looked forward to her being back after a shift off.
She even went above and beyond to stay in touch for follow-up appointments. She treated us all like family: “Is there anything else I can get for you?” “Laundry services are located here.” “Do you need a towel for a shower?” “Best places that deliver food to the hospital? Try here.”
It was one of the worst days of my life, but Abby instantly knew how to treat both the physical and emotional symptoms with the utmost professionalism and care — and for that, we will forever be grateful.
Nominated by Genevieve Fullilove
Ryan Carrigg, Boston Children’s Hospital
Ryan has been a friendly face in the room and in the hall for my son. He has continued to help support my son during a long admission by helping advocate strongly for my son’s needs and by helping distract him during high-pain or overwhelming moments with LEGO bricks, video games, conversation, and jokes. He is a trusted person for both my son and me. He’s a “ninja in the night” and keeps quiet, allowing Mom to rest while still maintaining distractions and pain management for my son. He checks in with Austyn whether he is his patient or not and will do anything he can to help.
Nominated by Jessie McLaughlin
Deborah Carver, Boston Children’s Hospital
Deb went above and beyond for Isaiah in the cardiac intensive care unit. She was warm, kind, and encouraging. She made Isaiah feel safe and comfortable and was very attentive to his needs. She was wonderful to us and even went above and beyond, using her skills as a former labor and delivery and postpartum nurse to help me as I was breastfeeding a brand new baby with a heart condition. She made me feel at ease and helped me in many ways. My husband and I loved having Deb as Isaiah’s nurse! We spent many weeks inpatient at Boston Children’s Hospital, and no other nurse compared to Deb.Nominated by Lyubov Carlson
Ayana Charles, Boston Children’s Hospital
Ayana Charles is the kind of nurse I would want caring for myself or any member of my family. Her dedication to patient care, unwavering advocacy, and commitment to excellence make her an extraordinary nurse and an invaluable member of our team.
Ayana consistently demonstrates the highest standards of nursing practice. She is deeply knowledgeable, highly skilled, and committed to providing safe, evidence-based care. She follows policies carefully and leads by example, ensuring that best practices are always upheld on the unit. Her attention to detail and commitment to doing things the right way help create a culture of safety and accountability for both patients and staff.
In addition to her clinical excellence, Ayana is a strong patient advocate who always ensures her patients’ voices are heard. She approaches each patient with compassion, respect, and a genuine desire to improve their hospital experience.
Ayana is also an exceptional preceptor. She plays a critical role in training and mentoring new nurses, helping them build confidence, develop strong clinical judgment, and uphold the high standards of our profession. Her ability to teach, guide, and support new staff ensures that the next generation of nurses is well prepared to deliver excellent care.
Ayana’s dedication and commitment to both patients and colleagues truly exemplify the very best of nursing.
Nominated by Kelly Miller
Elizabeth Clancy, Boston Children’s Hospital
Liz has always demonstrated kindness, empathy, and urgency in everything related to my care. My cardiologist was Dr. Gerald Marx. Liz was his clinical nurse practitioner who followed me for years. It was her compassion, commitment to patient care, and positivity that always made an anxious experience much more pleasant than anticipated. I can’t say enough good things about Liz and the lasting impact she has made on my life as part of Boston Children’s.Nominated by Mark Loiacano
Katie Cooleen, Boston Children’s Hospital
We traveled to Boston from Mississippi for our 2-year-old son, Charlie, to have open heart surgery to repair his congenital heart defect. He had a very complicated course in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) and spent approximately three weeks on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).
One day, after being taken off ECMO, Charlie had an emergency and was urgently put back on ECMO. It was a scary time, and we were a long way from home, far from our support system. We didn’t know how things were going to progress, and we were afraid of losing our son. Katie came in that night, at the start of her shift, and walked directly to me and gave me a hug. She knew it had been a hard day, and she knew exactly what I needed. Over the next two and a half months in the CICU, we were blessed to have Katie (and many other special nurses) take care of Charlie.
Katie took the time to call my husband and me by our names — not just “Mom” or “Dad.” She got to know us and made us feel like real people. It can be so easy to lose yourself and your identity when your child is hospitalized for an extended time. Katie cared for Charlie in the gentlest, most caring ways. She always made sure his hair was washed and combed. She never failed to narrate the care she was providing, even though Charlie was often sedated and may not have even heard what she was saying.
Katie is the definition of a good nurse. She is skilled, empathetic, thorough, and genuinely kind. But far more important than being a good nurse, Katie Cooleen is a good person. And she is a person we are thankful to have gotten to know. Thank you for everything, Katie. Boston Children’s Hospital is truly lucky to have you on their team.
Nominated by Kasey Garrett
Meredith Cox, Boston Children’s Hospital
Meredith was our nurse during one of the most vulnerable and emotional times in our lives, while we were pregnant with our daughter. She cared for us throughout the intrauterine blood transfusions, and from the very beginning, she demonstrated extraordinary compassion and clinical expertise. Her knowledge and confidence in such a high-risk situation gave us an incredible sense of reassurance and trust in the care being provided.
Beyond her clinical competency, Meredith was deeply kind and loving toward our family. She communicated clearly, answered every question with patience, and made sure we understood each step of the process. She didn’t just treat us as patients — she treated us like people who were scared and needed support. Her calm presence, advocacy, and genuine care made an overwhelming experience feel manageable. We are forever grateful for the trust and comfort she gave us during such a critical time.
Nominated by Erin Macmillan
Courtney Englehardt, Boston Children’s Hospital
In July 2025, we came to Boston Children’s for my daughter’s brain tumor resection. She had complications during recovery that were extremely difficult mentally and emotionally, but Courtney went above and beyond to build our daughter’s confidence and belief that she was going to be okay. Courtney was our nurse for several days, thankfully, and we are so incredibly grateful for her kindness, professionalism, and thoughtfulness. She made our stay at Boston Children’s worth every tear and heartache, and we pray that every patient can receive the care and attention that we did from a nurse like Courtney.
Nominated by Jen Mohr
Courtney’s energy and empathy combine to support our family beyond the nursing tasks necessary to care for our daughter. Courtney’s sense of humor lifts us up during long hospital stays. Her thoughtful actions, such as bringing in meaningful stickers for us and our children based on past conversations, make us feel understood and seen. She has developed a genuine relationship with our whole family, which helps Boston Children’s feel like a home away from home. We always look for Courtney, also known as “Kiki,” when we come back to Boston Children’s and give her a big hug.Nominated by Jenny Williams
Francine Falvo, Boston Children’s Hospital
Francine will forever be my Boston Children’s emergency department (ED) angel, and I truly believe our paths were meant to cross.
My son has complex medical issues and requires frequent admissions to the hospital. I am a firm believer that the ED visit can set the tone for the rest of the admission, and Francine made sure that our admission started on a positive note — she was the bright light we needed.
No one has ever taken the extra time to check in with me as the parent, asking if I had eaten that day, if I felt supported, or if I had all the resources I needed at home. As a nurse myself, I understand that the role of the ED nurse is to triage the acute problem and help get the patient where they need to be. Francine is so much more than “just an ED nurse.” She is a nurse, friend, social worker, case manager, and fierce supporter all in one.
She provided incredible care to my son, Patrick, and I will be forever grateful for that, but what I will never forget is her kindness, incredible compassion, and support. I recently ran into her again at the hospital, and she greeted me with a warm embrace, asked how Patrick was, how I was, and offered to bring us some food from home. She has gone above and beyond what her role requires as an ED nurse, and I will never forget her. Having a child with medical complexities can be especially difficult on a parent, and I have never felt so seen in my whole life. Thank you, Francine. I will be forever grateful that I was lucky enough to meet you.
Nominated by Meg Cifrino
Beth Farmer, Boston Children’s Hospital
We see Beth at least twice a year for our daughter’s diabetes checkups. This year, our endocrinologist retired, and we started meeting with a new one. We had no concerns with this transition because we knew we’d be able to consult with Beth about any questions or for advice. She brings compassion, curiosity, and connection to her patients — and we appreciate her!
Nominated by Kerry Bellefontaine
Stacey Gennis, Boston Children’s Hospital
Stacey was with my daughter when she went into cardiac arrest in 2015. She helped me stay strong all these years to get Jaelani through her transplant. I love her like a mother. She helped me stay strong through Jaelani’s dark days and has followed us through the years, keeping us grounded.
Nominated by Latoya Taromino
Chloe Hansen, Boston Children’s Hospital
Chloe was assigned to us while our son, Callum, was admitted in the cardiac intensive care unit (CICU) for hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS). She quickly became our go-to for quick answers, and she made sure we were comfortable during our long stay. She became the lead nurse on our continuity team, thanks to her ability to advocate for Callum and for us, the parents. She was able to take scary moments and show us the calm in the storm. Thank you, Chloe. We are indebted to you and the rest of the staff at the CICU.
Nominated by Charles Geary
Corrie Howe, Boston Children’s Hospital
Corrie has exemplified exceptional nursing care throughout our long battle with cystic fibrosis, demonstrating compassion, clinical competency, excellent communication, trust in care, and strong patient advocacy for both me and my brother.
Her advocacy is especially powerful. Corrie consistently speaks up for us during interactions with doctors who aren’t as familiar with our cases. She explains that certain symptoms or situations are normal for us and don’t require intensive treatment, helping prevent unnecessary interventions. She also educates staff on how to communicate effectively with my brother, who is nonverbal, ensuring his needs, preferences, and voice are respected and understood. This ongoing support builds deep trust in our care team and safeguards our well-being.
Corrie’s compassion is evident in her personal, heartfelt gestures. When I was a young child, she secretly decorated my hospital room for my fourth birthday while I slept. She coordinated with the entire floor to make it special — everyone contributed gifts — and the surprise brought genuine joy during a difficult time. This thoughtful act showed profound empathy and a commitment to treating us as individuals, not just patients.
Clinically, her years of experience with our condition enable her to deliver highly competent, tailored care with confidence. Her excellent communication keeps us informed and involved, making us feel truly heard and valued in every decision.
Through consistent, dedicated support over many years, Corrie has earned our complete trust. She goes far beyond standard duties to advocate fiercely, communicate clearly, and show genuine compassion for both me and my brother, making her an outstanding nurse who truly serves her patients.
Nominated by Caleb Hassan
Kristin Jacques, Boston Children’s Hospital
Kristin was like an angel to our family during a very stressful time. My daughter, who was 2 at the time, was transferred to Boston Children’s from a different hospital with complications of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and pneumonia. Kristin was so attentive, and I will never forget the care she provided for us. She even gave my daughter a little stuffed unicorn that she still sleeps with to this day.
Nominated by Juliana Bankover
Kayley Jones, Boston Children’s Hospital
Kayley is so sweet, and her bedside manner is impeccable. She goes above and beyond every single day. She loves her patients and ensures they get the best care. She communicates with compassion and kindness and is very supportive. She understands each situation is different and handles it with care, knowledge, patience, and respect. She is hands down the best. We just love her! Thank you, Kayley, for being such an important person in our son’s care. We would be lost without you. God bless you for being so amazing.Nominated by Katie Morits
Sergio LaFrazia, Boston Children’s Hospital
Sergio has been caring for my son, Austyn, since mid-December for a prolonged admission. If he is not Austyn’s nurse, he checks in and asks how things have been. He makes sure my concerns as a parent get heard by the doctors. He advocates for my son’s needs during rounds. He will help my son whether or not he is his patient. He’s always helping keep him distracted and busy. He also checks in on me and my mental state with dealing with the complexities of my kid’s care and lets me vent about my concerns and frustrations. He gives me reassurance that I can sleep while he’s on night shift. He makes sure I get the break I need while here. He is one of the most trusted nurses by both my son and me. We greatly appreciate him.
Carissa Lauria, Boston Children’s Hospital
Carissa has always shown the highest level of service with her patients, providing a warm presence balanced perfectly with extensive knowledge of her craft.
Nominated by Cam Hayes
May Leonard, Boston Children’s Hospital
May was always so kind, nurturing, and attentive to anything we or our daughter needed. During our inpatient stay, May was our daughter’s nurse for about three days, and each day it was so refreshing to know she was caring for our daughter exactly as needed.
Nominated by Megan Packard
Rae Lynch, Boston Children’s Hospital
Rae is one of the most dedicated and hardest-working nurses — and people — I know. She showed a strong interest in working with children with complex medical conditions, people who are marginalized, and people with mental health needs early in nursing school and has spent her career finding ways to do so through her work within and beyond the Advanced Cardiac Care Unit (ACCU) at Boston Children’s Hospital.
She works at the top of her practice every day to ensure the best outcomes for her patients and their families, treating them like her own family, which she also does with her friends and colleagues. Rae leaves no stone unturned and is a fierce advocate for her patients, her colleagues, and herself, and it shows through her commitment to providing quality care while advancing her education. Thank you, Rae!
Nominated by Brian Eagan
Chelsea Machin, Boston Children’s Hospital
This goes back 10 years, so I hope that prefaces the impact Chelsea made on our family. Our son, Mason, was born unresponsive; he had to be resuscitated and sent to Boston Children’s Hospital for specialized care in the neonatal intensive care unit. He was ultimately diagnosed with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and was intubated, had to be cooled, and needed critical care in his first few days of life.
Mason is our firstborn, so on top of the normal anxiety of caring for a newborn, we found ourselves helpless in a situation where our son was very sick. We relied on the amazing staff, especially our nurse Chelsea who not only took care of Mason, but took care of us as scared first-time parents during a medically complex situation. Her kindness and compassion have stayed with us until this day, and we are incredibly lucky and thankful she was there for us.
Nominated by Kristin Gogas
Sophia Markert, Boston Children’s Hospital
We first met Sophia when she took care of our daughter in the Boston Children’s cardiac intensive care unit. Sophia showed us — fast — how amazing she is. She taught us how to care for our daughter and what to watch out for. She gave us the peace of mind to step away from the hospital for a bit of fresh air. She would go out of her way, even when not assigned to us, to stop by and check on us.
Nominated by Scott Bell
Abby McMahon, Boston Children’s Hospital
In 2025, I spent five weeks admitted at Boston Children’s Hospital for severe malnutrition. I had just moved six hours away from home, and this was, unfortunately, not my first long admission. Abby not only harnessed every quality of an excellent nurse, but also went above and beyond to make me feel a little less alone. My family grew to love her and made sure to let her know!
We spent many nights playing games when things felt difficult. We went on walks, she helped me wash my hair when standing became very difficult, and so on and so forth. She was able to brighten any situation and left an impact on me and everyone else around her. She is truly setting the standard for pediatric nursing and deserves recognition more than anyone for her hard work and dedication!
Nominated by Brooklyn Jones
Hannah Neale, Boston Children’s Hospital
I am writing this well-deserved nomination of our nurse Hannah Neale from the Boston Children’s Hospital medical intensive care unit (ICU), where we were lucky to have Hannah as a nurse for four of our days there.
Myles was admitted to the medical ICU very unexpectedly after his sleep study went very wrong. His admission to the ICU came with a set of conditions that were unusual for a typical ICU admission. Due to the complex and unclear nature of these issues, we did not have a clear answer or next steps. Hannah went above and beyond advocating for Myles, helping to make sure that all the various specialty services coordinated and communicated with us. Myles has unique feeding requirements, which she took the time to learn about so that she could best advocate for us.
Hannah has a very positive attitude and can make a very overwhelming and scary situation feel more manageable. It was also the little things, like noticing we were low on diapers or bringing us a toy she thought Myles would like, without us even having to ask. She also found shampoo for me and would watch Myles every day while he napped so I could take time to get coffee and take care of myself. She truly has made our stay so much better than it could’ve been, and she deserves all the recognition.
Nominated by Emily Becker
Ediri Ogege-Abedi, Boston Children’s Hospital
This nurse goes above and beyond. She is so sweet and loving on top of everything. When nobody else changed my baby’s bed, she not only changed her bed, but gave her a heated blanket and warmed up wipes.
My daughter has spent half her life at Boston Children’s. We love it there. We especially love nurse Ediri. She is just the best. She is so organized that she knew my daughter could only get blood work done by one girl. She went herself and got her for Scarlett. Ediri deserves a raise and award.
She not only goes above and beyond for Scarlett, but also for me. She always checks on me, gives me a break, lets me shower, and watches Scarlett. We truly love Boston Children’s. Nurses are the heroes.
Nominated by Megan Chilauskas
Alyssa Oldfield, Boston Children’s Hospital
Alyssa touched my family so much. My son, Jax, was hospitalized for 13 long days. She was always by my 9-year-old’s side, checking in with him to make sure he was comfortable, always double-checking his IV, and going the extra mile to measure his arm to ensure his IV was still working.
Even when Jax wasn’t her patient, she would come in and just say good morning. This brought a huge smile to his face daily! On the days she wasn’t there, Jax would be missing her. They even made each other pictures before leaving the hospital! If every nurse was as passionate as her, the world would have the best nurses out there.
Nominated by Shannen Hanright
James Orangio, Boston Children’s Hospital
From the very beginning of Griffin’s diagnosis, Jimmy has been more than a nurse to our family — he has been a steady, compassionate presence during one of the most overwhelming seasons of our lives.
Jimmy consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical competency. His knowledge of Griffin’s condition and care plan is evident in every interaction. He not only performs his duties with confidence and precision, but he also takes the time to explain what he’s doing and why. He anticipates needs, answers questions thoroughly, and ensures we feel prepared and capable in caring for our son. His teaching has empowered us as parents and given us the confidence to participate fully in Griffin’s care.
What sets Jimmy apart most is his compassion. He approaches Griffin with gentleness and respect, treating him not just as a patient, but as a cherished little boy. He speaks to him, comforts him, and celebrates his small victories. He also recognizes the emotional weight that parents carry in moments like these. Jimmy has never rushed us, dismissed our concerns, or made us feel insignificant. Instead, he listens deeply and responds with patience and reassurance.
His communication is exceptional. Complex medical information is translated into clear, understandable language. He invites questions and ensures we truly understand before moving forward. Because of this, we trust him completely. That trust has brought us peace during an otherwise uncertain time.
Jimmy also serves as a strong advocate for Griffin. He ensures Griffin’s needs are prioritized, follows up when something doesn’t seem right, and collaborates with the broader medical team to provide the best possible care. We have always felt that Griffin is safer and better cared for when Jimmy is involved.
Simply put, Jimmy has made a profound difference in our experience. His compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication embody the very best of nursing. Our family will always be grateful for the way he has cared not only for Griffin, but for us as well.
Nominated by Elizabeth Bates
Alanna O’Sullivan-Flynn, Boston Children’s Hospital
I would like to nominate Alanna, who was our fabulous nurse at the Boston Children’s emergency room this past fall. Walking into Boston Children’s and immediately feeling seen and taken care of made such a huge difference for us after first seeking help at a different facility. Alanna quickly turned around one of the most difficult experiences we’ve had so far as parents with a very sick child and made it bearable.
Between her clinical skills handling the procedures we needed (which were not easy on a toddler), advocating for us to get the tests, space, and care we needed, and checking on us throughout a busy shift, she went above and beyond and made all the difference for us. I still tear up thinking about this experience, both because it was difficult and equally because I am eternally grateful for the expert and compassionate care we received from Alanna and the team. You will never know what a difference you made for us, and we will always remember the experience as less difficult because of you. Thank you!
Nominated by Grace Kelso Damond
Jacqueline Paige, Boston Children’s Hospital
Nurse Jacqueline provided exemplary clinical care during my stay. She didn’t just perform her duties; she took the time to ensure I was fully empowered and informed about every aspect of my treatment. Her ability to translate complex medical information into clear, actionable terms gave me immense peace of mind.
Nominated by Sophie Harteveldt
Caitlin Parker, Boston Children’s Hospital
Caitlin’s kindness and thoughtfulness have blown us away as parents on multiple occasions, but there is one night we will never forget. Our heart warrior son was 2 months old at the time and struggling with extreme tachycardic episodes at night. Instead of more sedation, Caitlin tried everything under the sun! She rocked him for hours, tried his first tummy time, and put him in our arms, leading with care and love over sedatives when possible. This meant the world to us. And she draws sweet pictures on our son’s surgery bandages and checks in on him on her breaks and days off, truly going above and beyond.
Nominated by Brittany Molina
Ryan Powers, Boston Children’s Hospital
Ryan cared for Emmett over several critical days, carefully balancing his levels and monitoring his complex heart condition with skill and precision. Most notably, he was present during Emmett’s cardiac arrest — the most terrifying moment of our lives. In that crisis, Ryan remained calm, focused, and steady. His composure and professionalism gave us confidence that our son was in capable hands.
What sets Ryan apart is not only his clinical excellence, but his compassion. He patiently answered what must have been thousands of our questions. He took time to explain monitors, lab results, medications, and next steps in ways we could understand. He never made us feel rushed or dismissed. Instead, he treated us as partners in our son’s care during an incredibly vulnerable time.
Ryan’s presence brought a sense of stability when everything felt uncertain. Because of him, we felt supported not just medically, but emotionally.
We are deeply grateful for the care he gave our son and believe he is truly deserving of recognition for his dedication, skill, and heart.
Nominated by Elizabeth Bergmans
Teresa Scalzi, Boston Children’s Hospital
Teresa cared for our daughter during her hospital stay. Throughout that time, she demonstrated remarkable compassion, clinical competency, and clear communication, which helped us feel supported and informed. Her dedication, professionalism, and advocacy for our daughter’s care made a lasting impact on our family, and we will truly never forget her.
Nominated by Alexandra O’Neil
Molly Shanahan, Boston Children’s Hospital
Our daughter, Paige Demmons, had intermittent treatment for high-risk neuroblastoma. Molly was Paige’s nurse on and off throughout our five and a half years of treatment. Care for our daughter was more than outstanding. Paige nicknamed nurse Molly “crazy Molly,” a running joke we laughed about for a long time.
We unfortunately experienced the passing of Paige after a long battle with neuroblastoma on the night of Oct. 8, 2025, and Molly went over the top to care for my whole family, comforting us and making sure we had everything we needed — just amazing care, I can’t say enough.
Nominated by Jonathan Demmons
Maddison Small, Boston Children’s Hospital
Our 3-year-old son was recently diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and spent two weeks at Boston Children’s Hospital. Maddison was with us through many days and nights during our treatment. This was a very emotional time for our family, and her compassion and kindness helped to put us all at ease. She was always willing to provide support, answers, and comfort during our stay. She was so sweet to our son and helped to make his scary hospital visit as peaceful as possible. We couldn’t be more thankful for the care and support we received.
Nominated by Gregory Costigan
Lauren Springer, Boston Children’s Hospital
Some nurses are truly angels on earth; Lauren is one of them.
Our daughter, Hailey, started off great, but after four surgeries in less than a month, she became traumatized. Lauren was one of our first nurses on the unit when we arrived, and from that first meeting, she and Hailey had a special bond. As Hailey’s trauma got worse, Lauren got more amazing, if that’s even possible. She took her time with Hailey, explaining everything calmly and letting Hailey slowly participate in her care.
When the doctors wanted to switch Hailey to oral medications, Lauren helped us advocate for her because it was not what was best for Hailey’s mental health or ours at the time. Since Hailey had formed a special trust with Lauren, even when Lauren wasn’t assigned to Hailey on the floor, she would stop in during the more intense care so that she could be a familiar face and help the other nurse calm her down and make their job easier.
When Hailey decided she was going to go on a hunger strike because she didn’t want to leave Boston Children’s because she was sad to leave her nurses, Lauren helped us talk to Hailey about it and got her eating more. Lauren always made it a point to come in for the Bluey trivia activity or Bingo with Hailey depending on what day it was because she knew Hailey enjoyed doing it with her.
Lauren celebrated the little milestones with our family. She really made a stressful time in our lives much more tolerable — but, more than anything, she made Hailey happy and comfortable. As happy as we were to go home, I’ll admit the only thing that made us so sad to leave was the fact that we wouldn’t see Lauren regularly. For the six weeks we were there, she was our constant and our calm in the storm. Of all the nurses we have had with Hailey’s complex medical issues, there has never and will never be another nurse as amazing as Lauren.
Nominated by Kyra Wetmore
Gwen Taibi, Boston Children’s Hospital
In March last year, our son was born 10 weeks early. What followed was a series of traumatic events, from giving birth early to him having a gastric perforation, sepsis, and a multi-organ injury. We spent almost a month in the hospital at Boston Children’s, not knowing if our son Rohan would make it and being told he was incredibly sick. After 128 days at Boston Children’s, our son finally came home.
While we went through this entire event, one of the rotating nurses who cared for our son, Gwen, was so incredibly compassionate and kind. She was honestly the bridge between our traumatic experience and our family’s ability to cope. She was always available to give me updates on our son throughout the night when I couldn’t stay over, and her ability to translate complex medical information into something we could understand was extremely helpful. During our son’s neonatal intensive care unit stay, he was hooked up to about six or seven different medical devices and monitors, and I think to any parent that is a terrifying thing to see — but Gwen’s calm presence assured us that our son was not just another patient, but a child she cared for.
While she monitored his vitals and took care of him medically, she also celebrated his personality, mentioning to us how adorable he was and how much she loved his little lip curl when he’d cry or the dimple in his chin. She was able to give us those normal newborn moments of joy that we weren’t able to have because our son was in the hospital for so long.
During night shifts, she never rushed me off the phone or made me feel like a burden for asking questions. She would give me all of the details about how the night went, and she always added that it was okay to call her again throughout the night. As an anxious mother, there were quite a few nights when I called more than once. In the most vulnerable months of our lives, Gwen provided more than medical support. She was able to provide us the kindness and reassurance that helped us survive the trauma. I can’t thank her enough for caring for our son while he was in the hospital.Nominated by Thaeje Shanker
Bayley Vandusen, Boston Children’s Hospital
Bayley went above and beyond in so many ways in the days she cared for my child in the cardiac intensive care unit. She was smart, kind, a fierce advocate for my child, and a great support for me as a parent. I was so grateful for and impressed by her dedication to her job and her patients.
Nominated by Taylor Desautell
Ashlyn Warren, Boston Children’s Hospital
Ashlyn is an extremely dedicated and competent nurse with a compassionate approach to all of her patients. She has only been working as a nurse for about a year and a half at this point but has already learned more about the intricacies of working in a children’s cardiac intensive care unit than I could have imagined. She genuinely cares about the condition of each of her patients and getting to know them and their families. She enters every shift with the same high degree of preparation and focus to provide the best care possible since she is often locked in for all 12 hours. Ashlyn continues to receive great remarks from her supervisors, patients, and colleagues, and she is a generally exceptional nurse and person.
Nominated by Eric Cosgrove
ElizabethWaters, Boston Children’s Hospital
Ellie was amazing with our son and just so kind, caring, compassionate, and patient with us and our son Lorenzo, or “Enzo.” He was having a difficult time after his open heart surgery both physically and emotionally, but she was able to help him to feel comforted and safe. She was even able to get him to smile and laugh. She was the first and only nurse to be able to get him to start walking around and not be scared. She even took him up to the cardiac roof garden to walk around. She truly made an impact on us and his care, and we will never forget it or her.
She would also take the time to chat and socialize with us. It was nice to have someone to talk to and joke around with outside of all the hospital noise. She was so kind and not just a nurse, but also a friend to us in all the chaos. She truly is amazing and deserving of so many awards and so much recognition. Ellie is the true definition of what a nurse should be: attentive, kind, caring, gentle, compassionate, knowledgeable, personable, and comforting. She went the extra mile for our son and us and really made us and him feel seen, comforted, and safe. She took amazing care of him, and we are forever grateful for her and thankful to have had her as his nurse.
Nominated by Alysa Nealey
Jordan Wietrecki, Boston Children’s Hospital
Jordan was so memorable in so many ways. Her patience and compassion were like no other nurse at Boston Children’s Hospital that we met — and we met a lot. We were admitted to Boston Children’s when our son was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and we were expecting phenomenal care and compassion, but Jordan was one of the few who gave that to us. She is an extraordinary person with a high level of professionalism. Of all the nurses and doctors we have seen over the past year and a half, she stands out the most. We will never forget the compassion she showed our family. I will never forget the way she held my hand when my son had an emergency scan in the middle of the night. She gave us strength when we didn’t have it. I hope she always knows how grateful we are.Nominated by Lindsay Dick
Cameron Wilson, Boston Children’s Hospital
Cam was always so empathetic, understanding, and caring when my daughter was in the Pediatric Intermediate Care Unit at Boston Children’s Hospital. We have had Cam as a nurse multiple times, and he’s always been so sweet!
Nominated by Katelyn Spencer
AllyssaWong, Boston Children’s Hospital
My son was born with multiple congenital heart defects, and I am a single mother. I am with him 24/7, and while inpatient, I was trying my best. Unfortunately, as a single mother without a way to get food for myself, I was struggling. Alyssa recognized this and went above and beyond. After I was not eating for multiple days due to not being able to leave the room, she realized the situation and was not only willing to sit with him, but became one of the few people I have ever felt comfortable leaving him with.
We were inpatient for 34 days, and she was one of very few willing to sit with him so I could take a few minutes to myself — which I didn’t see the value in previously but now appreciate. She made my son’s stay a whole different experience than what it began as, and I still cry remembering how happy she made him.
Nominated by Samantha Brunet
Christen Anderson, Boston IVF
A good nurse performs their duties with diligence, ensuring every task meets the highest standards of patient care. A great nurse goes further — offering not only medical expertise, but also empathy, patience, and respect. The best nurses do all of the above and more. They genuinely care about their patients, advocate for their well‑being, and treat them with the same compassion they would offer to their own friends and family.
Christen is one of those rare individuals who truly embodies what it means to be the best nurse, and she deserves to be recognized as such.
Christen has been the third-party reproduction nurse for me and my husband for a little over four years, and every interaction with her has been an absolute pleasure. She was our rock throughout our first IVF and surrogacy journey. Like many couples navigating IVF, we faced cycle failures and an early pregnancy loss, and there were moments when we felt almost hopeless. Christen’s unwavering support and deep compassion were a constant source of light, helping us find strength and guiding us through our darkest times.
After three transfer cycles with two surrogates, we finally welcomed our daughter last summer. The moment we stepped out of the delivery room, one of the very first people we called was Christen. We simply couldn’t wait to share the great news with her, knowing she had been hoping and praying for us every step of the way.
Now, as we begin our second IVF and surrogacy journey for baby number two, Christen is over the moon for us and eager to support us through this next chapter. There is no doubt in our minds that we are once again in the best possible hands — with someone who has become not just a trusted nurse, but a cherished friend.
Nominated by Chi Zhang
Heidi Atherton, Boston IVF
I am honored to nominate my Boston IVF nurse for the extraordinary care she provided during one of the most emotionally and physically demanding periods of my life. From the very beginning, she demonstrated a rare combination of deep compassion, exceptional clinical competency, and unwavering advocacy that made an immeasurable difference in my experience and outcome.
Her clinical expertise was evident at every step. She was meticulous, calm, and confident, explaining complex medical information clearly and ensuring that I fully understood each phase of treatment. No question ever felt too small or inconvenient. Her ability to translate medical details into reassurance helped reduce my anxiety and allowed me to feel actively involved and informed in my care.
What truly set her apart, however, was her compassion and communication. She really listened with empathy and patience. On difficult days, she acknowledged not just the clinical realities but the emotional weight of infertility treatment. Her kindness was never rushed or routine; it felt personal and genuine. Because of this, I developed an immense level of trust in her and in the care I was receiving.
She also served as a strong advocate for me, proactively coordinating care, following up without being prompted, and ensuring my concerns were addressed promptly by the broader medical team. I always felt that she was in my corner, protecting my best interests and treating me as a whole person rather than just a patient.
Her presence transformed a challenging medical journey into one marked by trust, dignity, and hope. She represents the very best of nursing at Boston IVF and is profoundly deserving of this nomination.
Nominated by Charlotte de Brabandt
I am honored to nominate Heidi for her extraordinary care during my IVF journey. From our first meeting, she demonstrated remarkable clinical competency by flawlessly managing my medication protocols and explaining the reasoning behind every procedure, which built an immediate foundation of trust in my care.
What truly sets Heidi apart is her profound compassion. During a time with so many unknowns, she explained everything. Her communication was consistently excellent; no question was too small, and she always ensured I felt empowered to make informed decisions.
Furthermore, she served as a tireless advocate, coordinating seamlessly between the doctors and the pharmacy to ensure my needs were never overlooked. Heidi exemplifies the highest standards of nursing excellence and is deeply deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Ashley Mason
Abigail Clarke, Boston IVF
I would like to nominate Abigail for recognition for her outstanding compassion and dedication to patient care.
We have completed four intrauterine insemination cycles under her care, and throughout each one, she has been consistently supportive, patient, and incredibly kind. Fertility treatment can be an emotional and stressful experience, and Abigail has a rare ability to make patients feel truly heard and cared for during every step of the process.
She always takes the time to answer questions thoroughly, never making me feel rushed or dismissed. Whether explaining lab results, procedures, or next steps, she communicates clearly and thoughtfully, which has significantly reduced my anxiety during an otherwise overwhelming journey.
What sets her apart is her genuine empathy. She approaches each interaction with warmth and understanding, offering reassurance and support when it is needed most. Her compassion is not just part of her job — it is evident in how she treats patients as individuals, not just appointments on a schedule.
Abigail has made a meaningful difference in my experience with fertility care, and I am deeply grateful for her dedication and kindness. She is an invaluable member of the care team and truly deserving of this nomination.
Nominated by Joelle Dashno
Alexandria Correia, Boston IVF
Alexandria went out of her way the day of my first intrauterine insemination (IUI) to ensure I felt confident and supported. When my IUI failed, she was so kind over the phone and assured me she would be there for me. She set up my second IUI and made sure I felt confident and supported the entire time. When the second one failed, she again was so kind and caring towards me. Anytime I have had a question or concern since November 2025, she’s had my back and supported me. She’s a great nurse and goes above and beyond.
Nominated by Shelby Butterfield
Erin Donlon, Boston IVF
My husband and I wanted to take the time to formally express our sincere gratitude for Erin and the exceptional care she has provided us throughout our IVF journey.
Walking into IVF, we knew it would be a medical process — but we quickly realized it is also an emotional one filled with vulnerability, uncertainty, hope, and fear. During one of the most stressful and intimidating seasons of our lives, Erin has been a constant source of calm, compassion, and unwavering support.
From our very first interaction, she treated us with kindness and genuine empathy. She never rushed our questions, no matter how small or repetitive they may have seemed. She explained each step clearly, followed up thoughtfully, and made sure we felt informed and empowered in our decisions. More than that, she consistently acknowledged the emotional weight of this journey. On days filled with anxiety or disappointment, her reassurance and warmth made an incredible difference.
Erin has a rare ability to combine professionalism and clinical knowledge with heartfelt compassion. She made us feel seen as people, not just patients. In moments that felt overwhelming or even scary, her steady presence helped ground us. We truly believe her support has shaped our experience in a profoundly positive way.
IVF can be isolating, but Erin helped us feel supported every step of the way. We are so grateful to have had her guiding us through this process.
Please know how much we appreciate her dedication and the comfort she brings to families like ours. She is an extraordinary nurse and an invaluable member of the Boston IVF team.
Nominated by Kelsey
Angela Dubowik, Boston IVF
Angela was the main nurse I worked with while going through fertility treatments. She was kind and compassionate. I will never forget the day she called me and told me I was pregnant. Thank you for all you do, Angela.
Nominated by Erin McCrillis
Caitlyn Durant, Boston IVF
Kitty seriously changed our entire experience at Boston IVF. She always met us with genuine care, warmth, optimism, and belief. I didn’t expect anyone besides my wife to walk hand-in-hand with me through this journey, but Kitty was right by our side the entire time. She consistently advocated for us, making sure our questions were answered, our concerns were heard, and our needs were never overlooked. At every step, she made an overwhelming and emotional process feel more manageable and human. The cherry on top moment was getting to bring our daughter by the Boston IVF office to meet her. We are so grateful to Kitty for helping us grow our family.
Nominated by Sara Binkhorst
Kitty’s support has been essential during our IVF journey, and she always meets us with kindness, compassion, and empathy. We are not the only patients going through the ups and downs of this process, and we have always felt extremely supported. Kitty has been there for the exciting parts, the bad news, and the life stressors that we have experienced, and I can’t say enough about the warmth and thoughtfulness she exhibits with every interaction we share, as well as her utmost professionalism when discussing the especially tough stuff!
Nominated by Kat St. Germain
Zoe Ehlert, Boston IVF
Zoe has been my primary nurse during my fertility journey. She is always kind and empathetic, maintains a professional demeanor, and genuinely demonstrates how much she cares in each interaction I have with her. Recently, she went above and beyond to coordinate with all the teams to make sure that I could start my next round on time without delay. This truly showed how much she really cares for her patients and their well-being.
Nominated by Kaitlin Weeks
Kascey Fedyshyn, Boston IVF
In November this year, we were preparing for our second embryo transfer. Our first transfer had failed, and after only having one embryo, we had to start the entire process over. After our second retrieval, we again had just one euploid embryo. This time, instead of a fully medicated cycle, Dr. Vitek and I decided to try a natural cycle. While this required significantly more monitoring and appointments, it was incredible to watch my body do what it needed to do, and it allowed me to build a closer relationship with my medical team.
Kascey was almost always the nurse calling me with updates and answering my many questions. She was consistently patient, detailed, and above all, incredibly kind. I have cried to her on the phone many times, and every single time she treated me with compassion and understanding.
As we reached the end of monitoring, my body was about to ovulate. While this was what we needed medically, it meant the timing would not align with the clinic’s transfer schedule. I was panicked when I saw the results. Having to wait another full cycle would just crush me. Kascey called to tell me that I would miss transfer by just one day, but before I could even react, she reassured me. She had already spoken with the embryologists and the doctor, explained my situation and all I had been through, and advocated for me. Because of her efforts, they agreed to perform my transfer on a Monday! This is something they do not typically do. I was so relieved and thankful. She was my guardian angel through this entire process.
Kascey could have easily told me we would have to wait for another cycle, but because of how much she cares, she went above and beyond. I am currently 15 weeks pregnant with our baby girl, and this would not be possible without her dedication and compassion. No one deserves this recognition more than Kascey. We are forever grateful for her and the entire team.
Nominated by Erica Evanoff
Jacalyn Finerty, Boston IVF
Jacky is not only warm and welcoming, but she also makes complex topics easy to understand. We were very nervous for our first appointment, and she made us laugh and connected with us first before diving into anything. Then, she listened to our health histories with care and intention. And after that, she talked through the next steps and answered all of our questions. This is clearly her way of doing things because she has been exactly like this every time we’ve met with her since. She is fantastic. She makes this whole IVF process much easier to deal with because we feel so safe with her.
Nominated by Christie Kelly
Nicole Getek, Boston IVF
From the very beginning of my fertility journey to present, my nurse, Nicole Getek, consistently demonstrated a rare and meaningful blend of compassion, clinical excellence, and unwavering support. She never treated me as “just another patient.” Instead, Nicole approached every interaction with warmth, patience, and genuine care. On some of my hardest days, she was often the person who helped me breathe again — reminding me that I wasn’t alone and that my feelings and fears were valid.
Nicole’s clinical competency was evident in the confidence and skill she brought to each step of the process. She explained procedures clearly, anticipated my questions, and made complex medical information feel understandable. Her attention to detail and her commitment to doing things the right way built a deep trust that is hard to put into words.
Communication is where Nicole truly shined. Whether it was calling with updates, checking in just to make sure I was okay, or responding quickly to messages, she always made me feel seen, informed, and supported. She never rushed our conversations and always ensured I felt empowered to make decisions about my care.
Perhaps most importantly, Nicole was a true advocate for me. She listened deeply, collaborated with my care team, and made sure my concerns were heard and addressed. She treated my journey as though it were her own, and that level of dedication changed everything for me.
Nicole’s compassion, skill, and devotion have made a lasting impact on my life. She is truly the definition of an exceptional nurse.
Nominated by Stacey Addorisio
During one of the most vulnerable and emotional journeys of my life, Nicole “Nikki” Getek consistently went above and beyond to provide exceptional care, compassion, and advocacy. From our very first interaction, Nikki made me feel seen, heard, and genuinely supported — not just as a patient, but as a person.
Her clinical competence was evident at every step of my treatment. Nikki explained complex medical information with clarity and patience, ensuring I fully understood my options and felt confident in each decision. No question was ever treated as insignificant, and no concern was dismissed. Her thoughtful communication and attention to detail built an extraordinary level of trust in my care.
What truly sets Nikki apart is her compassion. She understood the emotional weight that infertility treatment carries and met it with empathy, kindness, and steady reassurance. On difficult days, her calm presence and encouraging words made a meaningful difference. She consistently anticipated my needs, followed up with care, and advocated on my behalf, ensuring that both my physical and emotional well-being were always prioritized.
Nikki embodies the very best of what nursing represents: professionalism, empathy, advocacy, and excellence. Her dedication had a profound impact on my experience, and I am deeply grateful for the care and support she provided throughout my journey. She is more than deserving of recognition, and I cannot imagine a more fitting candidate for this honor.
Nominated by Luana Morato Leverant
Megan Hooper, Boston IVF
Without Megan’s amazing sense of humor, constant communication, and ability to answer every single annoying question, I couldn’t walk the road of IVF — plain and simple. I would not have even considered a third round without her there by my side. Her compassion is on a different level than any other nurse I have ever worked with. She somehow understands the struggle of wanting a child but being hesitant to put yourself through endless needles and ultrasound appointments.
During our last round, we did not make any viable embryos for transfer but would love to make our son — Dr. Lannon’s first miracle child for us — a brother or sister. She gives us hope. She gives me strength. She makes me laugh and deals with my sarcasm and dry humor.
Nominated by Amanda Oldfield
Elena Kelley, Boston IVF
Elena is absolutely vital to Boston IVF. She has made me feel like someone has cared about my journey, going out of her way to keep a watchful eye over me and making sure that I had every opportunity to make a cycle work when it didn’t seem that it would at first due to timing and insurance constraints. She is truly wonderful.
Nominated by Lauren Wilson
Michaela Kepnes, Boston IVF
Through multiple miscarriages and failed embryo transfers, Michaela has been the most supportive, passionate, and gentle nurse. She has also shared in my celebration and triumph with two successful pregnancies. I am so appreciative of her ability to support her patients in the most emotionally charged time of their lives.
Nominated by Jesse Kay
Michaela is the most incredible nurse I have had the pleasure of working with. She is so knowledgeable, honest, and kind. Her communication skills are superior and timely. I never have to worry about hearing back. I always feel like she truly cares about me and my care. She is open and honest with both the good and the bad news. I always know what to expect and what’s to come next. She takes the time to listen and answer all my questions and never makes me feel like I’m being annoying with all of the million questions I seem to have. I feel supported and well cared for knowing she’s on my side throughout the hardest life journey I have yet to face.
Nominated by Victoria Landress
Kennedy Marshall, Boston IVF
After undergoing IVF with a previous clinic for three years, I was nervous, exhausted, and apprehensive about switching to Boston IVF. I was leaving a clinic where I was familiar with the nurses and felt comfortable. Being partnered with Kennedy as my nurse was such a blessing. From day one, Kennedy has been kind, compassionate, responsive, and positive. No question or concern is ever a burden to Kennedy. I feel that my care is always prioritized and facilitated due to Kennedy’s ability to always take extra steps to make sure my concerns or thoughts are communicated with my care team. She has made the transition and my experiences at Boston IVF so positive and enjoyable.
Nominated by Riana France
Kirsten Thomson, Boston IVF
Kirsten consistently demonstrated compassion, clinical excellence, and unwavering support throughout one of the most emotionally complex journeys of my life. Fertility treatment is often described as a rollercoaster, and she understood that deeply — not just from a clinical standpoint, but from a human one. She recognized that each appointment carried hope, fear, and vulnerability, and she met me with kindness and patience every step of the way.
Kirsten’s compassion was evident in the way she listened without rushing, answered every question thoroughly, and acknowledged both the excitement and disappointment that can accompany IVF cycles. During difficult moments, she never minimized my feelings. Instead, she validated them, offering reassurance while remaining honest and realistic. That balance built an incredible sense of trust.
Clinically, Kirsten was exceptionally organized and detail-oriented. IVF requires precise coordination of medications, lab work, ultrasounds, and timing. She ensured I understood every instruction clearly, double-checked protocols, and followed up promptly with results and next steps. Her clear communication reduced my anxiety and gave me confidence that I was receiving safe, attentive care.
Most importantly, Kirsten treated me as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Her empathy, organization, and dedication transformed an overwhelming medical process into one where I felt supported and understood. I am deeply grateful for the compassionate, competent care she provided during such a difficult time in my life.
Nominated by Alicia Ferreira
Kirsten was always readily available for any questions or concerns I had through my fertility treatment. She always replied with great detail and compassion.No concern felt too small or too silly. When we had failed treatment cycles, she was kind and genuinely empathetic. When I finally became pregnant, Kirsten got to share the news with us, celebrating right along with us!
Nominated by Nicole LaMarche
Phoebe Winders, Boston IVF
While I have interacted with several members of the nursing team, my experience with Phoebe has been truly transformative. Throughout the highs and lows of my infertility journey, Phoebe has been a constant source of sweetness and strength.
She possesses a rare and unique ability to hold space for my emotions without ever losing her professional focus. During the most difficult phases, she never treated me as just another case number; she treated me as a human being worthy of dignity and time. Her communication is exceptional — always prompt in answering my questions and providing unwavering support. Phoebe’s motivating spirit gave me the hope I needed to navigate this journey with ease and confidence. I am immensely grateful for her care.
Nominated by Aparna Moorthi
Lauren Boucouvalas, Boston Medical Center
Lauren is the definition of caring, compassionate, and clinically excellent. Throughout my labor, she helped me change positions before I even asked, educated me and my husband, and monitored our baby. She made us feel so at ease during her night shift. But Lauren’s true heroics came during the final stage of labor, pushing. Once the baby’s head came out, the team realized his shoulder was stuck. In that moment, Lauren got my attention, told me exactly what to do and exactly what was going to happen next. I should have been scared. Instead, I felt empowered. I knew what I had to do to help get the baby out because of Lauren’s expertise. 30 seconds later, baby Liam was born. Lauren, we can never thank you enough for saving baby Liam’s life. We talk about you often!
Nominated by Victoria Martell
Samentha Calixte, Boston Medical Center
I would like to formally nominate Samentha Calixte, a nurse on Menino 4E, for her outstanding care and professionalism.
Sam has been exemplary throughout my stay, consistently following every protocol and ensuring that all aspects of my care have been handled with the utmost attention and precision. Her meticulous approach, clinical expertise, and genuine compassion have made a meaningful difference in my experience. She demonstrates not only technical excellence but also a deep commitment to patient safety and dignity.
I would also like to express my sincere appreciation for Meredith and the entire case management team on this floor. Their attentiveness and dedication in exploring every possible option to ensure that I am able to leave in good hands have been truly remarkable. Their collaborative effort, clear communication, and persistence in coordinating my discharge planning reflect the highest standards of patient advocacy and care.
Mary Cote, Boston Medical Center
Mary is the reason I had such an amazing experience delivering my son. I don’t think she left my room for more than 10 minutes during her entire shift. She had me flipping into all different positions to turn him into an ideal laboring position. She stayed by my side reassuring both me and my husband during a scary moment, and she advocated for the things I wanted and needed. She kept the environment calm and is the reason I had such a smooth delivery. This is truly her calling. Six months later, we are still singing her praises to whoever will listen.Nominated by Sarah Woodard
Joy Crowley, Boston Medical Center
To be completely honest, from the very beginning, my nurse, Joy, has made me feel truly at home in a way I didn’t expect but deeply needed. In moments that can feel overwhelming or uncertain, she has been a steady, comforting presence. She doesn’t just treat me like a patient — she treats me like family, with warmth, respect, and kindness that feels genuine and heartfelt.
I truly trust her, and that trust means everything to me. She’s consistently friendly and approachable, always taking the time to sit with me, listen carefully, and make sure I feel heard and understood. I never feel rushed or dismissed. Most importantly, I can tell that she genuinely cares about my well-being — not just medically, but emotionally too. That compassion and dedication have made such a meaningful difference in my experience.
Denisha Dominguez, Boston Medical Center
Denisha Dominguez has been exceptionally responsive and attentive to every one of my needs, no matter how big or small. From the very start, she has shown a remarkable level of awareness and dedication, always anticipating what I might need and making sure I feel comfortable and supported. I never have to wonder whether my concerns will be addressed — she responds promptly and follows through consistently, which brings an incredible sense of reassurance during a vulnerable time.
She provides everything I require in a timely and efficient manner, but what truly sets her apart is the genuine kindness and compassion she brings to her work. Her care never feels routine or transactional; it feels heartfelt and personal. She treats me with dignity, patience, and respect, taking the time to ensure I understand what’s happening and feel at ease.
Beyond her clinical excellence, she always arrives with a warm, beautiful smile that instantly brightens my day. That smile, paired with her calming presence, has the power to lift my spirits even on the hardest days. Her positivity and grace make a meaningful difference in my healing journey, and I am deeply grateful for the care and comfort she provides.
Ashley Goncalves, Boston Medical Center
Ashley is the exact nurse you would want to take care of your loved one. She goes beyond the expected and ensures all her patients are well cared for emotionally and physically. With multiple years under her belt, Ashley provides care that is both knowledgeable and empathetic. She never goes a second without letting her patients know that they will be well cared for, considered, and advocated for. I have seen firsthand how many patients visibly appear better and smile brighter after having Ashley as their nurse. Working a shift with Ashley is knowing that someone will always have your and your patients’ backs. She is a stellar team player and nurse.
Nominated by Michelle Le
Jayana Greene, Boston Medical Center
I am pleased to nominate Jayana Greene, whose exceptional clinical skill is matched by a deep and sustained commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within our organization. During the time we worked together on the DEI Committee at Boston Medical Center, I witnessed firsthand her ability to deliver high‑quality, compassionate care while also championing initiatives that made our workplace more equitable and culturally responsive.
As a nurse, Jayana consistently demonstrates excellent clinical judgment, strong communication skills, and a calm, patient‑centered approach. She builds trust quickly with patients and families from a wide range of cultural, linguistic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. Her ability to listen deeply, advocate effectively, and tailor care to each individual’s needs has made her a model for culturally competent practice.
Beyond her clinical responsibilities, Jayana has been a driving force in our DEI efforts. She serves as a co-chair for the DEI Committee, on which she helped design and implement initiatives that improved staff awareness and reduced disparities in patient experience. What sets Jayana apart is her ability to pair empathy with action. She approaches DEI work with humility, curiosity, and a commitment to measurable impact.
Nominated by Astride Barnard
Jayana is the ultimate advocate. When I was admitted to the hospital to have my baby, Jayana was my first day-shift nurse. When she walked in, the first thing she wanted to know was how much I knew about the labor process. From there, she took her time educating me and my husband, writing down the steps, and going through how to get from one step to the next. She listened to my fears, my wishes, and used all of her skills to not only care for me, my husband, and our baby physically, but she also cared for us emotionally.
When the doctor wanted to break my water, I looked to Jayana for guidance. She told us she had some more tricks up her sleeve that we could try to have my water break on its own. Later that night, that exact scenario happened. With an IVF pregnancy not much is natural, but Jayana’s expertise and guidance allowed me to avoid an unnecessary procedure and experience my water breaking naturally — I will never forget it. Jayana, Dan, baby Liam, and I can never thank you enough for your compassion, humor, knowledge, and advocacy. We talk about you often!
Kelley Hammil, Boston Medical Center
Kelley is an exceptional emergency department nurse who consistently demonstrates compassion, clinical excellence, and unwavering advocacy for her patients. In a fast-paced and often unpredictable environment, she remains calm, focused, and deeply attentive to the needs of those in her care.
Kelley’s compassion is evident in every interaction. She takes the time to listen to patients and families, ensuring they feel heard, respected, and supported during some of their most vulnerable moments. Whether comforting a frightened patient or explaining complex medical information in a clear and reassuring way, Kelley builds trust and fosters a sense of safety.
Clinically, Kelley is highly skilled and demonstrates strong critical thinking. She recognizes subtle changes in patient conditions and responds quickly and appropriately, often anticipating needs before they arise. Her attention to detail and commitment to best practices contribute to high-quality, safe patient care.
Kelley is also an outstanding communicator and team member. She collaborates effectively with physicians, nurses, and ancillary staff, ensuring seamless care delivery. Her positive attitude and willingness to help others make her a valued leader on the unit.
Above all, Kelley is a dedicated patient advocate. She consistently speaks up to ensure her patients receive the care they need and deserve, going above and beyond to remove barriers and promote the best outcomes.
Kelley embodies the true spirit of nursing and is highly deserving of this recognition.
Nominated by Shaun Noonan
Jane Makson, Boston Medical Center
Jane Makson has tirelessly dedicated her career and life to her patients and to uplifting the Boston Medical Center community. She has an extraordinary ability to focus completely on the patient in front of her and form meaningful connections with people from all walks of life. Jane carries a calming presence that heals. She teaches gently, sharing her intuition and wealth of knowledge about how to truly care for patients, unfazed by the acuity of illness or by the challenges of difficult circumstances. Each day, Jane generously offers her decades of nursing expertise, kindness, and steadfast advocacy in service of patients, colleagues, and trainees.
At the start of my training, I first met Jane moments after meeting one of my first new patients alongside my mentor in his clinic. She was a young woman in her early twenties with a fast-growing lymphoma. Our patient fought to shake her nerves and hold back tears, while I tried hard to hide my own inexperience. My mentor told me he knew just the nurse for our patient. As we reviewed the side effects of chemotherapy together, Jane gently joined the conversation, adding in about what to expect. When reviewing that the patient would lose her hair with treatment, Jane acknowledged this reality while also reassuring her about the beauty of wigs. She comforted her through discussions of nausea and other side effects, and with each visit, Jane helped find solutions for the symptoms that were difficult to control and for the words left unsaid.
As I navigated the transition to becoming an attending, Jane encouraged me to continue advocating fiercely for those under my care. When the time came for a very dear patient to address end-of-life decisions, it was incredibly difficult. In one of our conversations, we needed to finalize care decisions. Jane calmly joined and helped guide the discussion with honesty and compassion. She shared insight and her perspectives into how further treatment could cause harm and helped our patient understand what different end-of-care options might look like for her and her family. She reassured her about the resilience and well-being of those she was so worried to leave behind.
Jane continued to support her through clinic visits — addressing her pain, weakness, and search for answers. In these moments, when neither words nor more treatment could heal, Jane showed me how we can respect our patients and honor their journey and resilience by continuing to provide the same calm, consistent, and fully dedicated care.
Jane has taught me never to lose the element of human connection — with our patients, with our community, and with ourselves. She reminds us that the most powerful medicine we may sometimes offer is our presence, humility, honesty, and our humanity.
Nominated by Maya Srinivasan
Meredith Murphy, Boston Medical Center
When you think of a nurse, you think of their compassion and drive for their patients. We tend to forget that they are also a strong foundation for their team. I met Meredith last year, and I have never felt so much support and compassion from one person — from being the charge nurse for our unit and supporting staff and rooms when possible to simply being a shoulder when we are having our toughest times. When I think of the care I would want for my family and myself, she is truly the nurse who I know I’d receive the best patient-centered care from.
Nominated by Krystal Murphey
Christine Naoum, Boston Medical Center
My daughter with special needs needed to get labs drawn. She gets very anxious. Christine made us an appointment, brought her to get blood drawn, stayed with her, and brought a child life specialist to help. My daughter was able to get the labs without having an anxiety attack or episode. The care for both my child and me was beyond anything I have ever witnessed. My daughter looks for Christine every time she has an appointment. She has made such a difference.
Nominated by Diana Perez
Chinyere Nwanekezi, Boston Medical Center
I would truly like to take a moment to recognize the incredible care I’ve received on Menino 4E. Compared to a previous experience I had here that was not very positive, this stay has been completely different in the best possible way. The improvement has been remarkable, and it has not gone unnoticed. From the moment I arrived, I have felt a renewed sense of attentiveness, professionalism, and genuine concern for my well-being.
Today alone, I had six different attending providers come to visit me personally. Each one took the time to ask thoughtful questions about my experience and whether I was satisfied with the care being provided. That level of follow-up and accountability made me feel heard, valued, and reassured that my comfort and recovery truly matter to the entire team. It meant so much to see such a coordinated and compassionate effort.
My nurse today has been absolutely exceptional. She has gone above and beyond in every way — attentive, responsive, kind, and incredibly professional. She has made me feel safe, respected, and cared for during a vulnerable time. Her presence, along with the dedication of the entire Menino 4E team, has restored my confidence and left me genuinely impressed.
I am deeply grateful for the compassion, attention, and high-quality care I’ve received. Thank you to everyone who has worked so hard to make this experience such a positive and healing one.
Alexa Rhodes, Boston Medical Center
Alexa is the most caring, kind, patient, hardworking, always available to help, dependable, responsible nurse, and she goes above and beyond every single shift. Alexa is a float nurse. She is like a chameleon! Any unit you put this hardworking woman on, she gets the flow of the unit, always helping certified nursing assistants, phlebotomists, and other techs. She will always say yes to helping co-workers. Her communication is on point. She advocates for her patients and colleagues. Nursing staff, supervisors, and directors can all count on Alexa. Alexa deserves this. She puts her all into this hospital and really needs to be recognized!
Nominated by Jaclyn Whalen
Colleen Webb, Boston Medical Center
I am honored to nominate Colleen for the Boston Globe’s Salute to Nurses section in recognition of her extraordinary dedication to patient care, clinical excellence, and the lasting impact she has on patients, families, and colleagues.
Colleen is a remarkable nurse whose expertise in geriatric and cardiac care consistently elevates the standard of care in our unit. She holds herself and those around her to the highest standards, always advocating for safe, thoughtful, and compassionate care.
What truly distinguishes Colleen is her deep connection with her patients. She brings warmth, humanity, and joy into every interaction. Whether she is singing, dancing, or simply taking extra time to listen, Colleen ensures that each patient feels seen, valued, and cared for as a whole person. Her impact is evident in the many letters and thank-you cards she receives from grateful patients and families. It is not uncommon for patients to remember her by name long after their hospital stay, a testament to the lasting impression she leaves.
Colleen is also deeply committed to the future of nursing. She takes great pride in educating and mentoring student nurses, sharing her knowledge and modeling the compassion, professionalism, and clinical excellence that define outstanding nursing practice.
Perhaps most inspiring is Colleen’s dedication to growth and advancement in the profession. While continuing to provide exceptional bedside care, she is also pursuing her doctorate in nursing, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to improving health care and strengthening the nursing profession.
Colleen embodies the very best of nursing: intelligence, compassion, advocacy, and heart. Her patients trust her, her colleagues rely on her, and her impact extends far beyond a single shift.
Nurses of Boston Medical Center – Brighton and Boston Medical Center – SouthI am honored to submit this nomination on behalf of a grateful patient and his wife, who took the time to write a heartfelt, handwritten letter recognizing the extraordinary care provided at Boston Medical Center (BMC) – Brighton and BMC – South.
The patient suffered a sudden cardiac arrest at home. His wife bravely witnessed the event and, under the guidance of a 911 operator, performed CPR until emergency medical services arrived. After receiving initial treatment at the BMC – South emergency department and intensive care unit, he was transferred to BMC – Brighton by medflight for advanced care. There, Dr. Tam performed lifesaving cardiothoracic surgery.
In her letter, the patient’s wife wrote:
“I want to commend the CNAs (certified nursing assistants) who watched over him at BMC – South. I only met the daytime ones, but they were outstanding. The best were Aime and Vena. Also Rosa Emma, Cheryl, and Islande were very good. … I thought it’s only right to commend those who were truly angels to my husband and showed incredible patience and compassion.”
After receiving the family’s letter, the chief nursing officer at Boston Medical Center Health System spoke with the patient’s wife, who shared that her husband is home and recovering — an outcome she deeply credits to the seamless, compassionate, and expert care he received.
This letter has been confirmed by the patient for public posting and nomination. It is a powerful testament not only to clinical excellence, but to the profound impact of compassion, patience, and humanity in moments of crisis. The CNAs recognized in this letter exemplify the very best of our mission and values, and it is with great pride that we nominate them for recognition.
Nominated by Laurenis Guzman
Emily Owens, Boston Medical Center – South
Emily goes above and beyond, not only for her patients, but for her colleagues as well. I’ve watched her grow from a transporter to an intensive care unit nurse to a cardiac catheterization lab nurse, and she has remained the same compassionate caregiver no matter her role. She is not only an amazing caregiver and an advocate for her patients’ best interests always, but she is an amazing colleague who is a true role model in every way.
Nominated by Priscilla Braga
Rachel Klein, Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital
Rachel has been a nurse in the emergency department at Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital for a year, and she consistently brings a warm, positive presence to the unit. Her compassion shows in the way she approaches every patient with patience, empathy, and genuine concern. She has demonstrated strong clinical competency, growing steadily in her critical thinking and confidence while managing the fast pace and complexity of emergency care. Rachel communicates clearly and respectfully with patients, families, and colleagues, which has helped build trust in her care. She is a reliable advocate for her patients, ensuring their needs and preferences are heard. Recently, she began precepting a nursing student, modeling professionalism, compassionate practice, and emerging leadership.
Nominated by Lauren Neales
Katherine Onello, Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital
Katie consistently takes initiative and is always willing to lend a hand, making her a steady and reliable presence in the emergency department. Whether assisting with a critical patient or helping deliver a baby in the ambulance bay, she brings calm, confidence, and compassion to every situation. Her strong instincts and critical thinking skills reflect excellent clinical competency, and her clear, composed communication helps both patients and colleagues feel supported. Katie’s peers identify her as a natural leader, known for her quick thinking, advocacy for patient needs, and unwavering commitment to providing compassionate, high‑quality care.
Estier Sayegh, Brigham and Women’s Faulkner Hospital
Estier is a compassionate and supportive intensive care manager, and she works very hard to keep the patients safe. She instills in her staff the importance of a good work ethic. During the recent winter storm, she ensured that her staff would be at the hospital so as to not reduce the quality of care that staff would provide to their patients. She is kind, yet firm, and has great critical thinking skills that allow her to see the big picture and work to find solutions to issues that may arise.
She is pursuing her Doctorate of Nursing Practice, and she is collaborative with her fellow students. She seeks justice for all people and does not see race, religion, politics, or gender in her interactions with those students. Her commitment to see projects through is commendable, and her managerial input and guidance are paramount. She is an excellent asset to the nursing profession and to anyone who wants to be treated as a human being.
Nominated by Moishe Ragieme
Katie Blake, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
At 4 a.m., night-shift conversations usually veer toward the chaotic. But tonight, the question was simple: “If you could do any job in the world, what would it be?”
“This one,” Katie said instantly. No hesitation. No pause. To Katie, being a labor and delivery nurse isn’t just a career; it’s the coolest job on earth.
As a permanent charge nurse at Brigham and Women’s, Katie’s impact is often felt rather than seen. She no longer receives the stacks of thank-you cards that primary nurses do, but every successful birth on her floor bears her fingerprints. She is the “jester” on the dark days and the steady hand during a crisis. Like a master conductor, she utilizes her intelligence and infectious joy to ensure the entire machine runs smoothly, safely, and — most importantly — with the patient at the center.
Katie is the nurse who is always watching, ready to swoop in the second an emergency arises. She navigates the high-pressure behind-the-scenes grind without ever asking for the spotlight. She doesn’t do it for the recognition; she does it because she genuinely loves the staff, the patients, and the craft.
Working alongside someone who possesses such a profound love for what they do is a rare gift. Katie is more than a leader; she is the heart of the unit. No one is more deserving of this honor than the woman who makes the impossible look easy every single night.
Nominated by Jessica Wilkinson
Caitlin Carney, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Caitlin went above and beyond to help my father recover from his radical cystectomy with urinary diversion after an aggressive cancer diagnosis. We were blessed with so many great nurses, but Caitlin had such special qualities about her that by the end of our few days with her, we felt like we’d known her forever. After such a tough surgery on my dad, his spirits were suffering, yet every time Caitlin popped in to check on him, you could literally see his spirits lift. She has such a genuine, caring way about her, and she understood my dad’s teasing nature and handled him in such a way that I will never forget. She was so good in her efforts to get him to go about things he needed to do like walking his laps and hydrating, and she had a way of making him feel accomplished after these tasks.
Caitlin stood out to us in so many ways that we truly felt like she was part of the family. She left her mark on us, especially my dad, and we are forever grateful. Going through life experiences like my dad’s cancer returning and him having to have this radical surgery was so tough. Having a nurse like Caitlin gave us security like no other. We knew Dad was in good hands. We will always remember the kindness and care she showed not only my dad but my entire family.
Nominated by Kerri Murphy
Suzanne Dolan, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Suzanne “Daisy” Dolan took care of our 10-week premature baby on overnight shifts after he was born until his discharge 56 days later. During Caden’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay, Daisy cared for not only him, but also us as his parents. She made us feel so comfortable with regards to our baby’s care.
When we could not be there to visit, she would call us to keep us updated. Daisy is so knowledgeable about all things NICU and preemie. She is a nursing veteran, and it is clear that she knows her stuff when you talk to her. Any questions I had, she would answer and explain to make sure we knew what was going on. When she was caring for Caden while we were there, she would explain what she was doing, even when we didn’t explicitly ask, ensuring we felt comfortable.
I spent an overnight in the NICU during one of Daisy’s shifts, and it was incredible to have her there. She helped me learn to care for my baby in new ways when I had not been there for overnight care before. I remember laughing with her at 3 a.m. at a silly sound my baby made, feeling so comforted by her presence when the world and hospital around us felt so dark.
Daisy took the time to get to know us as people, not just NICU parents. Our son was able to see Daisy after his discharge, and he lit up as soon as he heard her voice. He felt safe with her and it brought me so much joy to know that he felt comfort with her when I could not be there at the NICU. Daisy is a lifelong friend and a bonus auntie to our sweet baby, who is thriving thanks to her incredible care.
Nominated by Emily Rigdon
Natasha Egorova, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
I am hard of hearing and English is not my first language. Also, my leg was so swollen with what was diagnosed as deep vein thrombosis, I was scared. Natasha helped me understand what to do after leaving the emergency room and coordinated my care afterwards. It was such a relief to be cared for by someone so competent, who gave clear explanations and instructions using simple, easy to understand words. She reassured me with her calm yet confident demeanor. I know that emergency room nurses are extremely busy, but Natasha Egorova didn’t make me feel rushed. She carefully reassured me and gave me confidence that everything was going to be okay. I am very grateful to her.
Nominated by Frima Frid
Lauren Forester, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Lauren took care of our premature baby on overnight shifts from the night that he was born 10 weeks early until his discharge 56 days later. During Caden’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay, Lauren cared for not only him, but also us as his parents. On the days when I felt that I couldn’t keep going, seeing Lauren and chatting with her about TV shows or the new Taylor Swift album made everything feel more normal and reminded me that there was a world outside of the all-consuming NICU environment — that there was still so much joy to be found in the world when it felt like my life had been turned upside down.
Lauren made us feel so comfortable and in the know regarding our baby’s care. When we could not be there to visit, she would call us to keep us updated. Lauren is so knowledgeable about all things NICU and preemie baby. Any questions I had, she would answer and explain to make sure we knew what was going on.
She gave Caden lots of snuggles and created incredible personalized arts and crafts to decorate his hospital room that we will cherish forever. Knowing he had a caregiver who loved him during the night let my husband and I sleep so much easier.
Lauren took the time to get to know us as people, not just NICU parents. Our son was able to see Lauren months after his discharge, and he lit up as soon as he heard her voice. He felt safe with her and it brought me so much joy to know that he was with her when I could not be there at the NICU. Lauren is a lifelong friend and a bonus auntie to our sweet baby, who is thriving thanks to her incredible care.
Nicole Gear, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
As an intensive care unit nurse and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) specialist, Nicole stands at the bedside of the sickest patients with remarkable skill, a calm demeanor, and dark humor that brings reassurance in the most uncertain moments. Her clinical expertise is matched only by her compassion — she doesn’t just care for patients, she truly cares about them. She never wavers to advocate for both her patients and co-workers. Nicole is the nurse everyone hopes to work bedside: supportive, selfless, and always ready to jump in without hesitation. Outside the hospital, her strength and determination carry her across marathon finish lines as she prepares for the Boston Marathon, and that same resilience shines in her most meaningful role — being a loving, devoted mom. Nicole inspires those around her not just by what she does, but by who she is.
Nominated by Anita Re
Alyssa Ghazalie, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Alyssa took care of our 10-week premature baby from the day he was born until his discharge 56 days later. During Caden’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay, Alyssa cared for not only him, but also us as his parents. She made us feel so comfortable and in the know regarding our baby’s care.
When we could not be there to visit, she would call us to keep us updated. Alyssa is so knowledgeable about all things NICU and preemie baby. Any questions I had, she would answer and explain to make sure we knew what was going on.
Alyssa taught me how to give my baby his first bath. I was terrified, but her calm demeanor and incredible wealth of knowledge made me feel confident in what I was doing. I was intimidated by the process, but she was so hands-on that it was such a joyful experience. I am thankful to have had her there to teach me not just that day, but every other day.
During our son’s NICU stay, Alyssa traveled across the world. Even in her absence, she would check in with me about how Caden was doing, making sure I felt supported. She even was kind enough to bring him a book back from Australia that he loves.
Alyssa took the time to get to know us as people, not just NICU parents. Our son was able to see Alyssa after his discharge, and he lit up as soon as he heard her voice. He felt so safe with her, and it brought me so much joy to know that he felt comfort with her when I could not be there at the NICU. Alyssa is a lifelong friend and a bonus auntie to our sweet baby, who is thriving thanks to her incredible care.
Ashley Hagopian, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Ashley is truly an exceptional nurse who made a lasting impact on my experience during one of the most stressful times of my life. I was on bed rest for an extended period of time before delivering my baby, and during that time Ashley became so much more than just my nurse — she felt like a friend and a source of comfort.
From the moment she walked into the room, Ashley brought warmth, kindness, and reassurance. She always had a way of making me smile, even on the hardest days. Being in the hospital for such a long time can feel overwhelming and lonely, but Ashley provided a sense of consistency and normalcy that meant so much to me.
Whenever Ashley was on shift, I made sure to request her because I knew I was in the best hands with her. She was always caring, attentive, and genuinely invested in my well-being. After I delivered my baby, I made sure she was my nurse again because of the incredible care she had already shown me.
One moment that truly stood out was when Ashley took the time out of her day to come visit my baby in the neonatal intensive care unit. That simple act meant the world to me. It showed just how much she truly cares about her patients and their families.
Ashley didn’t just provide medical care — she provided compassion, comfort, and emotional support during a time when I needed it most. Her kindness and dedication will always stay with me, and I am incredibly grateful that she was part of my journey bringing my baby into the world.Nominated by Maria Drakopoulos
Lisa Humulock, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Lisa, as usual, went above and beyond for her patient suffering from a brain injury with the utmost care and compassion. She went the extra mile to manage the patient’s pain, advocate for the patient every day, and form a strong, trusting relationship with the patient and family. Lisa is one of the best nurses to exist, and everyone who crosses her path is very lucky!
Nominated by Stacy Powell
Emma Izydoczak, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
At 39 years old, I was admitted postoperatively for a permanent colostomy, a procedure I knew was necessary but had feared for so many years after suffering with Crohn’s for almost a decade.
Waking up in that room, I felt like this was the worst possible thing that could have ever happened to me. During one of the darkest times of my life, I saw the brightest of lights when I met Emma Izydoczak. Emma spoke to me in a way that made me feel seen and heard. She assured me that there was nothing to be ashamed of and that every day I would get stronger and better days were ahead.
Emma truly goes above and beyond to ensure that her patients have everything they need. I’m on a restricted diet of gluten-free and dairy-free, and during my stay, there was an issue with the kitchen being shut down for most of the day and night. Emma advocated to ensure that I was able to get a safe meal. She made multiple calls throughout the day and even demanded to speak to a supervisor to get me a suitable meal. During my admission, Emma took extra time to talk to me about my ostomy, knowing how anxious I was about the whole situation. She offered to help do a bag change with me so that I could get extra practice before discharge. She educated me, supported me, and assured me that my quality of life would be better.
Emma knew I was struggling with my anxiety and overall confidence as a young woman. Emma made sure she found a way to relate to me. With a big smile on her face, she shared a cute ostomy purse she had seen on TikTok. We laughed, and at that moment I knew: I was not alone, and that, yes, one day soon I would feel better and look fierce at the same time.
I’ve come across many nurses in my life, and I have to say that Emma truly is one of a kind. Her presence fills the room with positivity and hope. She makes her patients feel seen and heard. Emma is not only knowledgeable, but most importantly, caring and compassionate. Emma will forever be part of my story of how one person can really change your perspective and make a difference. Brigham and Women’s and her patients are truly blessed to have her on their team.
Emma, thank you for being you!
Nominated by Kaitlin Silva
Rebecca Laclair, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
I would like to recognize Rebecca Laclair, who cared for my son and supported me during our time in the neonatal intensive care unit. What began as one of the most frightening experiences of my life was made bearable because of her compassion, dedication, and genuine kindness.
From the moment she stepped into our room, she treated my son with the gentlest care and the highest level of professionalism. She explained every monitor, every procedure, and every change in his condition with patience and reassurance. Her clinical confidence gave me peace during moments filled with fear and uncertainty. I trusted her completely with my baby, and that trust meant everything to me as a mother.
What truly set her apart was how she cared for me as well. She noticed when I was exhausted, reminded me to eat, and encouraged me to rest — even when I felt guilty stepping away from my son’s bedside. She checked on my emotional well-being, offered comforting words, and sometimes simply stood beside me while I cried. In those moments, she helped carry a weight that felt too heavy to hold alone.
She made sure I felt included in my son’s care, teaching me how to comfort him and empowering me to be part of his healing. She advocated for him, listened to my concerns, and ensured his needs were always a priority.
This nurse didn’t just provide medical care — she provided hope, strength, and compassion when I needed it most. I will forever be grateful for the love she showed my son and the kindness she extended to me. She made an unforgettable impact on our lives, and I truly believe she represents the very best of nursing. Becky, my family and I love you with all our heart.
Nominated by Rosa Lara
Rachel Larkin, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
There is so much I could say about Rachel for how she treated my mom, dad, and me. The respect, care, empathy, and compassion we were all treated with was beyond reproach. From the moment my mom was admitted to the floor, Rachel was there for all of us.
The memory of Rachel that sticks in my mind happened the day of my mom’s surgery. After a long day of waiting, we finally got the news that my mom was on her way back up to the floor. Naturally, I dashed to the room to be there. Ditching my dad and other family who came to support us, I waited “alone” in the room for over a half hour for her to come back. I say “alone” because Rachel was there for me. Several times she checked in on me, asking if there was anything she could do or anything I needed. She was constantly reassuring me that my mom was on her way to the floor, they were just waiting on transport. She saw the concern on my face and did everything she could to try to alleviate it as much as possible.
Finally, my mom returned to the floor, and once she was settled in the room, Rachel looked at me and said, “She’s going to be okay,” with a smile. I believed her. I knew she was sincere in saying that. Now, every time I see my mom take steps in her recovery, I can honestly say I hear Rachel utter those words. For some reason, Rachel’s tone in that moment made me believe and trust that my mom was going to make it and would keep fighting. She was very much a reassuring presence for me.
Every time we came to visit, Rachel would wave and come as soon as possible to give me an update on how my mom was doing since we left the night before. She knew I wanted the information for obvious clinical reasons but also for the security of knowing she was being cared for. Not that it was ever in doubt, but not being able to be by my mom’s side at all times wore on me, and Rachel did all she could to alleviate that stress and concern. She would then always stop in the room a bit later to say hi to all of us as a unit and see how we were all doing. She would always be sure to say hello even when she wasn’t my mom’s nurse.
Rachel genuinely cares about her patients, and her ability to connect on a personal level is unmatched. She is someone we will always remember. There is no way we could thank her enough for all she did caring for my mom and for how she treated my father and me. I will never forget her and will always hear, “She’s going to be okay.”
Nominated by Ariana Casey
Paige McGinn, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Paige is the embodiment of what it means to be a cardiology nurse at Brigham and Women’s. I have spent a third of the last year inpatient and have experienced firsthand the loneliness and difficulty of carrying on life within the hospital, but Paige always found ways to put a smile on my face, even during some of my most difficult days.
Paige’s clinical competency and unwavering advocacy became evident to me early on. She didn’t just administer care; she consistently went above and beyond by advocating for medications and modalities that were specific to my long-term success. I truly believe that by having Paige as my nurse, she helped change the trajectory of my recovery and success. In a complex medical system, having a nurse who uses their voice to ensure you receive the highest standard of treatment is invaluable.
However, what truly sets Paige apart is her genuine compassion. Being hospitalized frequently and for extended periods of time is isolating and exhausting. Paige recognized the person behind the patient. Even on days when she wasn’t assigned to my floor, she would use her own time after her shift to visit me. She would always enter my room with various dad jokes to make me laugh, even when I was at my worst. Having this level of trust is rare. Paige has made a lifelong impact on my life, proving that excellent nursing is as much about the heart as it is about the science.
Nominated by Morgan Stickney
Ellen McKeon-Levine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
I have been a co-worker of Ellen’s for the past 14 years. She is great to all of our patients. She shows care and helps to comfort each of the patients that gets to have her as a nurse. I would truly like to thank her for all of the hard work she puts in daily while never complaining. Ellen lights up every room that she walks into, and she is always caring to everyone she meets, even if it’s for 10 minutes when she comes in to help get a patient onto the table. She is the kind of nurse you hope to get when you need any kind of procedure. She tells every patient she is working for them and always makes sure they are comfortable and relaxed for the procedure. She is the greatest of all time of the nurses in angiography and neurointerventional and deserves to be recognized!
Nominated by Angela Schiavone
Heather McKinnon, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Heather McKinnon helped guide me through my very first code. As a new graduate, I felt like I could finally breathe in such a tough and fast-paced scenario knowing she was by my side. She advocated with me for higher-acuity care, walked me through each step of what was happening, and later debriefed with me to make sure I was okay.
The following night, I had another acutely ill patient and she was right there again. Through her expertise and knowledge, I was able to take two very difficult experiences and come out a more confident and resilient nurse. Beyond her clinical skill, Heather brings a positive energy that is truly healing for patients and staff alike. Her calming presence and supportive spirit never go unnoticed or unappreciated.
Nominated by Renee Dervishian
Heather embodies all the best qualities of nursing. She arrives at every shift with a positive, can-do attitude. She never fails to lend a helping hand to everyone through their shift. Many times, you don’t even need to ask for help, she just steps right in and gets to work. Her presence on our floor shapes the culture.
As lovely as it is to work with her, I’ve also seen how deeply she cares for her patients. One time, during a rapid response, I was documenting and at the computer. My patient was in the bed next to the rapid response. Heather took the time to sit next to my patient and talk to him while the commotion was going on. His mother passed away in the hospital, and it was bringing up a lot of emotions for him. It didn’t matter that it wasn’t her patient, she stepped up to care for and support him when I was busy. I saw how much that interaction meant to my patient, and I was very grateful for her.
Heather strives to continue her education and career by obtaining new certifications and going back to school. She always finds new ways to become the best nurse, nurse leader, and co-worker that she can be. Heather has worked bedside on our floor for a long time, and though the job is demanding and challenging at times, it’s clear that she is dedicated to her profession and patients each shift. Anyone who is blessed by Heather’s bubbly, friendly, joyful presence is, without a doubt, changed. I look up to her in more ways than one, and no one is more deserving of recognition than her.
Nominated by Elizabeth Krenicky
Amy McLaughlin, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Amy McLaughlin consistently demonstrates exceptional compassion, clinical competency, and advocacy for patients during one of the most vulnerable and emotionally challenging times in their lives — the IVF process. She goes above and beyond to ensure that patients feel informed, supported, and confident in their care, taking the time to clearly explain complex information so patients fully understand each step of their journey.
Amy is deeply committed to patient-centered care and always prioritizes patient safety, dignity, and emotional well-being. Her calm presence and clear communication foster trust, allowing patients to feel reassured, even during moments of uncertainty or distress. Patients and colleagues alike recognize her as a reliable and knowledgeable resource who consistently delivers high-quality, compassionate care.
In addition to her direct patient care, Amy is a strong advocate for both patients and the nursing team. She proactively ensures that policies are current and workflows are optimized to support safe and efficient care delivery. Amy willingly steps in to assist colleagues and frequently takes the lead on implementing new workflow updates, ensuring seamless transitions that minimize disruption to patient care.
Amy’s dedication, leadership, and willingness to go above and beyond exemplify the highest standards of nursing practice. Her unwavering focus on patient well-being, combined with her strong advocacy and teamwork, makes a meaningful and lasting impact on both the patients she serves and the nursing team she supports.
Nominated by Stephanie Eleyi
Tony Mendez Lopez, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Tony demonstrated exceptional compassion, clinical competency, and advocacy during one of the most vulnerable and emotional times of my life. I was admitted on May 13 to be induced with my first baby boy, just four days after the unexpected loss of my mom. I was carrying both excitement and deep grief, and Tony immediately recognized the weight of what I was experiencing. He approached my care with genuine empathy, offering comfort not only as a nurse but as a human being. His presence was steady and reassuring during such a fragile time.
Over multiple days of labor, Tony remained attentive, energized, and fully committed. When I was in active labor for over six hours, he confidently applied his clinical knowledge, suggesting and assisting with different laboring positions to help move things along safely. He was excited to use new skills he had learned, and his competence gave me confidence. I trusted him completely and felt empowered to try anything he recommended because he clearly explained the purpose behind each intervention.
When the room became tense and I felt overwhelmed by providers and decisions, Tony consistently advocated for me. He reminded me that the choices were ultimately mine and ensured I understood my options. His calm, clear communication helped me feel informed rather than pressured.
On May 15, when my baby boy, Archer, was finally born, Tony was there encouraging me, holding my hand, and motivating me as I pushed. I will always remember the trust, compassion, and strength he provided during such a life-changing moment.
Nominated by Kylie Nelson
Jordan Nashawaty, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Jordan has played a critical role in our son Joshua’s neonatal intensive care unit stay. From the moment he was admitted, she sprung into action to provide lifesaving care. Now, as his primary nurse, she takes care of him every day, explaining everything that is going on every step of the way. She is so proactive that she thinks of things before they come up. If it wasn’t for her, I don’t know how I would leave Joshua every day.
Nominated by Jazmyne Reese
Newborn Intensive Care Unit, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
We felt compelled to nominate the Brigham neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurses as a collective. Their excellence is not only clinical but deeply human, and our family is living proof of the extraordinary impact they make every day.
Our daughter, Lucy, entered the world weighing 1 pound, 8 ounces and spent her earliest months fighting for each breath. The NICU saved her life time and time again as she battled repeated episodes of respiratory failure. What stood out to us was not only the team’s skill, but the unmistakable aura of unity, compassion, and purpose that defines the Brigham NICU.
In those fragile early days, Shuli treated our tiny daughter with dignity and pride, honoring every small but meaningful moment of connection we could have with her. On the night we faced the hardest conversations of our lives, Cara and Ericka balanced complex medical interventions — max pressors, escalating support — with the tenderness of helping us find the perfect baptism outfit. Liz led by example time and time again, delivering difficult updates with grace and celebrating every victory with us, including our first time holding our daughter. Olivia, though new, carried herself like a seasoned nurse during some of Lucy’s most challenging nights. Christina, a veteran, brought warmth and expertise to every interaction. Haley, Amanda, and Mallory fought for Lucy through both the good nights and the terrifying ones, even finding a bed for me when I needed to stay close while equally celebrating nighttime routines and the little moments.
These are only a few of the many nurses who not only fought for Lucy’s life, but ensured she had the chance to thrive — in ways that were meaningful, dignified, and empowering. From the nurse managers and the peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) team to Lucy’s primary team, every person played a role in the miracles we witnessed and did so like a harmonious symphony orchestra.
Our miracle baby is now almost one year old and thriving. We will never forget the Brigham NICU nurses and their extraordinary ability to work together in the most beautiful ways during the toughest times.
Nominated by Shannon DiPalmo
Catrina Pitts, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Catrina was with me and my wife in our darkest moments in family planning. She was warm and caring. She allowed me to listen to my little girl’s heartbeat before having to let her go. She was with me every step of the way.
Her energy was exactly what I needed at such a difficult time. She reminded me of a previous nurse I’d had years before when I was delivering my first daughter. I told her all about that nurse (I didn’t remember her name) and how she had made delivery so comfortable for me. She was just as warm, just as caring.
After returning home from my procedure, I looked up my hospital notes from my first delivery and realized she was the same person.
Catrina was with me in my happiest moment, and she was also with me in my darkest, and in both situations, her calm was grounding. I always say she was my angel. I hope she truly knows the gravity of what she does.
Nominated by Jessica Morris
Stacy Powell, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Stacy took care of me during my time at Brigham and Women’s, and let me tell you, a nurse like that is hard to come by! She was meticulous in her care, explained things clearly, and helped me feel at ease during the scariest time in my life. She is beautiful inside and out, and I wish she would marry my son. Thank you, Stacy, for all you’ve done and continue to do for your patients!
Nominated by Larry Fitzgerald
Amy Reyes, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
My wife was 24 weeks pregnant when she was admitted to Brigham and Women’s Hospital because our unborn daughter was critically ill. We lived on the labor and delivery floor for over a month before our daughter was born at 28 weeks and five days. Our time at the Brigham was filled with uncertainty and fear for her survival. After a subsequent seven-month neonatal intensive care unit stay, she is now home and thriving.
During my wife’s hospitalization, we received a crash course in navigating an incredibly complex medical world. We were forced to piece together complicated health challenges and make impossibly difficult decisions — and throughout it all, Amy was our rock.
Amy was not only exceptionally skilled in caring for my wife and unborn daughter, whose condition required deep cardiovascular knowledge, but she also cared for us as people. She brought calm, clarity, and strength into the most frightening days of our lives. She was a force on the labor and delivery floor — a thoughtful, balanced, and effective advocate who helped ensure the best possible outcome for our family.
Amy has become a friend, and we will be forever grateful for her extraordinary care and for the profound impact she had on our lives.
Nominated by Michael Carbone
Mary Sawyer, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Mary took care of our premature baby from the day that he was born 10 weeks early until his discharge 56 days later. During Caden’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) stay, Mary cared for not only him, but also us as his parents. She made us feel so comfortable and in the know regarding our baby’s care. When we could not be there to visit, Mary would call us to keep us updated, plus give us pep talks on the hardest days.
On the days when I felt that I couldn’t keep going, seeing Mary and chatting with her about books, her sweet dog, and movies made everything feel more normal and reminded me that there was a world outside of the all-consuming NICU environment — that there was still so much joy to be found in the world when it felt like my life had been turned upside down.
I will never forget when my son was diagnosed with a heart defect and I had a rough conversation with a doctor. Mary heard me crying and came right in, bringing me chocolate and giving a hug and words of encouragement. She was able to explain the scary diagnosis in a way that was much more understandable and reassuring. Everything Mary did helped bridge the gap between the medical side of the NICU and our family, ensuring we felt like an active part of our son’s medical team. We never felt confused or unsure when Mary was there.
Mary took the time to get to know my husband and I as people, not just as NICU parents. She is incredibly deserving of recognition; she was made to be a NICU nurse! Mary is a lifelong friend to us, and a bonus auntie to our sweet baby, who is thriving thanks to her incredible care.
Donna Smith, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
This particular nurse demonstrated compassion by forming genuine connections with patients and their families. She consistently approached each interaction with warmth, patience, and empathy, recognizing that hospitalization can be both physically and emotionally overwhelming. She took extra time to sit with patients who were anxious, explain procedures beforehand, and provide reassurance during difficult moments. Her calm presence helped create a supportive and healing environment.
Nominated by Khadija Doucette
Mikayla Smith, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Mikayla wasn’t just a nurse I had during my three weeks on the antenatal floor, she became family. During one of the most stressful times of my life, she went above and beyond to make sure I was okay every step of the way. She is caring, compassionate, and truly amazing.
Mikayla was always easy to communicate with, someone I could completely trust, and incredibly knowledgeable in everything she did. I would always request her on the days she was working because she made such a difference in my care. She truly has a heart of gold.
If I ever had to be on bed rest again, I would feel at ease knowing Mikayla would be my nurse.
Nominated by Maria Drakopoulos
Emily St. Onge, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
Emily was the first nurse my mom received care from when she was admitted to the hospital. At a time when my mom and our family were anxious, confused, and upset with what was happening, Emily was there for all of us. She provided the calm demeanor we needed, and she knew just when a bit of laughter was needed to lighten the mood.
One memory that sticks in my mind is walking back into the room and seeing my mom in such a tearful and anxious state. I watched from the door, my mom crying in a puddle of tears, and Emily was there, kneeling by the bed and holding her hand. Seeing Emily there holding her hand — letting her feel those emotions, reiterating to her that it was okay to have those feelings, and telling her everything will work out — will stay with me. Emily truly brought hope to the grave situation we were in. Her tender nature was just what we needed at that moment during my mom’s stay. We are forever grateful for her care, and she will hold a special place in our hearts.
Camden Stanley, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
It’s hard to put into words how incredible of a nurse Camden is. Cam was the first person I met when my daughter was born eight weeks early and started her month-long stay in the Brigham and Women’s Hospital neonatal intensive care unit. I knew my birth experience would be challenging with my husband being deployed, but I could have never anticipated my daughter’s dramatic entry into this world. Despite all the uncertainty, I was immediately put at ease by Cam’s kindness, humor, and clear love of their job. Whenever postpartum anxiety would get the best of me, I could always ground myself knowing that my daughter was in Cam’s loving and capable hands. They were an incredibly bright light in such a challenging time for me and my family, and that’s something I will be forever grateful for.
Nominated by Zoie Friend
Kerry Thayer, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
In the high-stakes environment of Brigham and Women’s labor and delivery, there is a specific kind of magic in the way Kerry Thayer moves. She is quiet, calm, and — if you’re paying attention — sneakily funny. But above all, Kerry is a master of her craft who seems to know everything without ever having to ask.
As a charge nurse, Kerry’s leadership is an art form. She is everywhere at once, yet she never raises her voice and she never panics. In a field often crowded by big egos, Kerry remains entirely unfazed. She possesses the rare, brilliant ability to guide a team so subtly that others often believe her genius ideas were their own. She doesn’t need the credit; she only needs the result.
Beyond clinical excellence, Kerry is the glue that holds the human element of the unit together. Whether she is planning weekend dinners to foster teamwork or quietly ensuring every staff member feels included and supported, she is constantly building a culture of safety. She never asks for a thank you. In fact, she never asks for anything at all.
Kerry is the definition of steady. She is the safe harbor in the middle of a chaotic shift. Because of her quiet vigilance and unmatched expertise, countless families have had safe births, and her colleagues have had a leader they can truly lean on. Kerry Thayer doesn’t just run a floor; she protects it.
Olivia Zelvis, Brigham and Women’s Hospital
My daughter, Olivia, was born to be a caregiver. Whether it was caring for the cows at the O’Neil farm in Duxbury with the 4-H program and beyond or at Bay Path Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Duxbury, Olivia has walked the walk and talked the talk. A recent recipient in June 2024 of a DAISY Award, the nominating individual wrote that Olivia’s professionalism, empathy, knowledge, and ability to explain and educate were immediately on display and put their minds at ease.
Olivia has always succeeded at whatever she gets herself into, whether running marathons, lifting weights, knitting hats, or taking care of her two cats, Frankie and Marge. Olivia has the right intentions. Olivia puts you in a part of her world so you can enjoy it right along with her. Olivia deserves to be honored as all nurses do, but I have a special place in my heart for Olivia. Keep up the great work, Livy. I love you.
Nominated by Paul Zelvis
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.