September 2026 Honoree
Carmen Rehfeldt, RN
To whom it may concern, first, I would like to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to the entire Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) and Perinatal Clinic team at Meriter. What makes my story a little different is that I am a full-time wheelchair user and paraplegic as the result of a motor vehicle accident in 2015. Navigating a high-risk pregnancy while also managing complex medical needs and mental health challenges has not been easy. Throughout this journey, however, Carmen has been an unwavering source of support.
From every test, blood draw, non-stress test, ultrasound, admission, and discharge, Carmen made sure I never felt alone. Her attentiveness, compassion, and determination have made an immeasurable difference in my care. She answers questions with confidence and clarity, and if she doesn’t immediately know the answer, she makes certain I receive the information I need before I leave or by the end of the day.
Beyond her clinical knowledge, Carmen’s warm smile and positive demeanor make every clinic visit a pleasant experience. Her candor is something I deeply appreciate. At times, the truth can be difficult to hear, but it is always delivered with genuine concern and a desire to achieve the best possible outcome for her patients. Carmen treats every patient with dignity, respect, integrity, and grace. She leads by example, demonstrating professionalism and compassion in every interaction.
In a healthcare system where patients can sometimes feel overlooked, Carmen consistently makes people feel seen, heard, and valued. As someone who has faced significant medical and personal challenges, I cannot adequately express how much her support has meant to me throughout my pregnancy. The care she has provided has not only helped me navigate a high-risk pregnancy but has also given me confidence, reassurance, and peace of mind during one of the most important times in my life. Please extend my deepest gratitude and recognition to Carmen for the exceptional care she provides. Meriter is fortunate to have her, and patients like me are better because of her dedication and care.
From every test, blood draw, non-stress test, ultrasound, admission, and discharge, Carmen made sure I never felt alone. Her attentiveness, compassion, and determination have made an immeasurable difference in my care. She answers questions with confidence and clarity, and if she doesn’t immediately know the answer, she makes certain I receive the information I need before I leave or by the end of the day.
Beyond her clinical knowledge, Carmen’s warm smile and positive demeanor make every clinic visit a pleasant experience. Her candor is something I deeply appreciate. At times, the truth can be difficult to hear, but it is always delivered with genuine concern and a desire to achieve the best possible outcome for her patients. Carmen treats every patient with dignity, respect, integrity, and grace. She leads by example, demonstrating professionalism and compassion in every interaction.
In a healthcare system where patients can sometimes feel overlooked, Carmen consistently makes people feel seen, heard, and valued. As someone who has faced significant medical and personal challenges, I cannot adequately express how much her support has meant to me throughout my pregnancy. The care she has provided has not only helped me navigate a high-risk pregnancy but has also given me confidence, reassurance, and peace of mind during one of the most important times in my life. Please extend my deepest gratitude and recognition to Carmen for the exceptional care she provides. Meriter is fortunate to have her, and patients like me are better because of her dedication and care.
Thank you, Carmen, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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