Our twin sons, M and G, were born on Dec. 13 at UAB. On Dec. 20, M was transferred to Children's for a major abdominal surgery. After surgery, Ashley was the first nurse who admitted him in the NICU on the last day of her 7-day shift. M had a rough time, and Ashley took care of him when she returned the following week. All through the week she demonstrated amazing quality of care, not only for Mason, but for us too. She was constantly encouraging and empathetic. During this hard time, my wife broke down and explained to Ashley how helpless she felt having not even held M since birth. Miraculously, M had a really good night on Jan. 4, and Ashley made a sweet sign that read:

"1-5-14

Mommy and Daddy, I was a big boy last night! I'm off of my dopamine! My nurse told me I am well enough for you to hold me for the first time today! I'm so happy!

Love, M...."

I can't adequately put into words how much it meant to us, not just because she held M for the first time, but because Ashley went so far above and beyond her job responsibilities to take care of our family. There is no doubt in my mind Ashley would win this award and/or receive recognition for her exemplary actions. She (and many other outstanding Children's staff) are part of our family now, and we are so fortunate to have such amazing people walking this journey with us and blessing us daily.