Gayle is an extraordinary nurse who exceeds expectation in caring for her patients on a daily basis. As a Reiki master she has taken nursing to the next level with integration of Reiki into her daily practice. More importantly she is committed to the healing environment and getting to know what is necessary to maintain that environment for her patients and families. For example, Gayle will stay after work for hours just to perform a Reiki session on a patient that has had open heart surgery and in pain. She also integrates Reiki into her care plan for the day if needed. In conjunction with traditional treatment, the Reiki has allowed patients to relax, especially at night time. They are able to sleep well through the night and participate more strongly in their recovery. Many patients state they feel more refreshed and energized.

I have also witnessed Gayle accompany patients to the Operating room so that they can remain calm prior to a life changing event. It not only benefits the patient but, also the spouses' remark on how calming they both felt with her.

As a leader, Gayle also has offered Rieki classes to her co workers to expand on the therapy so other nurses are able to offer the service to their MMC patients. She believes that by relaxing, a patient heals faster and spends less time here at the hospital. By creating a stress free environment she believes patients are able to restore their natural ability to heal.

Gayle makes a difference in the way we care for our patients and doesn't hesitate to share her knowledge with those around her. It is the extraordinary caring that occurs daily that makes Gayle deserving of this award.