How could someone so bright and bubbly on the surface be so tenacious underneath? This is a question I often found myself wondering as I was under Laura's care on S 5. After three mornings under her care, I'm still not sure I know the answer but there is one thing I know for sure. Behind her friendly smile and chipper energy, this nurse is a passionate advocate and a protector for all under her care. She was quick to advocate for me in a number of scenarios. When I mentioned the medication stung when injected she believed me and came up with a new way to do it, effectively solving the pain issue. When I had a hemorrhage in front of her, she made sure I was rushed to the right doctor. When I returned from my procedure, shaking, ice cold, and still laying on the bloody sheets and blankets that she had sent me down with she immediately took action, changed them out, and warmed me with blankets and leg massagers. When I tried to shower alone and struggled, she and her PCA treated me with dignity, respect, and grace. Laura even tracked me down tweezers and hair ties so I could feel “human” again. Throughout she was like a burst of sunshine, but her incredible sweetness masked in (my opinion) something much firmer: a nurse with a passionate commitment to all protecting championing, and respecting all those in her care. I felt incredibly safe in her arms and under her care. I knew if she said she was going to do something or try to find something out for me (like an appointment time etc) she would and I felt warmed by her positive energy- a blessing, given she was seeing me at one of the lowest points in my life having just lost a baby and dealing with rare complications. Her radiant energy helped encourage me to look toward a more hopeful future and for that, I am forever grateful. UMass Memorial is blessed to have her because any patient in her care will have a champion in their corner as well as a dedicated caregiver.