I would love to recognize and thank Karen for the amazing care that she provided for my mother after she ended up admitted due to suffering a heart attack. I have truly never encountered such a compassionate, fun, and caring nurse! When I went to visit my mother after her first overnight stay, I walked in and the very first thing she said to me was, “Everyone here has been so nice; my nurse, Karen, is the sweetest.” Karen came in shortly after we arrived for our visit to check on her. She pulled the stool up to the bed and spoke directly to my mother while making eye contact instead of towering over her. While this seems like a minuscule and insignificant gesture that probably doesn’t mean much, it meant a lot to her, and it was very noticeable to those of us visiting. She showed genuine concern for her and made sure she was comfortable. She listened to all her concerns and provided very direct, clear answers. We had spoken to the doctor the evening prior, but we still had several questions. She ensured she explained everything in a language we could all understand and took the time to listen to our concerns. A short while later, she came back in to see if my mother wanted lunch. She wasn’t sure what she wanted, so Karen went and got her a menu to help her decide. She then scooted the stool back up, making a joke about being her server, and stepped into the waitress role. It put a smile on my mother’s face and made us all giggle. I could tell my mother was in very good, caring hands, which made us feel better about leaving when our visit ended. We have been to several doctors’ offices and hospitals for my mother, myself, and other family members, but we rarely come across nurses like Karen. I truly believe you have a one-of-a-kind gem in Karen. You are lucky to have her on the Silver Cross team!

Note: This is Karen's 2nd DAISY Award!