Nomination: Melak was so compassionate and caring. I was in the hospital for over a week, the longest I've ever been with a medical problem. Melak was so attentive and honest with me, she encouraged me to stop drinking alcohol. It was the wake-up call I needed. Melak made me feel human while in the hospital. Helped me whenever I called and kept me informed. Additionally, when I was making progress, she was enthusiastic and celebrated the victory. I truly appreciate Melak's care and support during my time in the hospital. She helped me be comfortable and supported me so I could get better.

Patient Nomination: Melak is an absolute asset to your team. The compassion and empathy she showed me while she was my nurse were way beyond anything I'd expected. She was already number one in my book because she is efficient, pays attention to detail, and was there for me when I had my meltdown. She sat on the side of my bed and spoke to me in soft tones and rubbed my back. I knew I was holding her up from her other patients, and that stressed me even more. But she just kept up the litany, “it's going to be OK, don't worry. Please don't cry”. I'm tearing up again writing this, she is clearly a diamond.