Erin embodies the true heart of nursing, which is compassion, and she is exceptionally deserving of this recognition. She provided me with extraordinary care and support she provided following a D&C after having a miscarriage. There are many aspects of this challenging experience that I know will stick with me forever, but part of what I will always remember is the positive impact Erin had and her ability to bring a sense of comfort to an otherwise painful and devastating day.

As a nurse myself, I understand how the demands of our profession can sometimes dull the compassion we started with. It’s easy to get lost in the fast pace, the tasks, and the emotional weight of what we see every day. Erin has so clearly not lost her compassion. She saw me as a person, not just a patient, providing not only medical care but also comfort, reassurance, and hope. She offered helpful insight, validated the weight of my grief, and helped me begin to process my loss.

She also shared a small part of her personal story. Something she didn’t have to do, but chose to, with sensitivity and care. I also want to highlight that Erin recognized this experience was difficult not only for me but also for my husband. She acknowledged his loss too, spoke to him with empathy, and in doing so, made us feel seen as parents who had lost a future with a child. Erin not only uplifted us that day, but she also reminded me of what it truly means to be a nurse. Not just someone who performs tasks, follows protocols, or goes through the motions, but someone who shows up with compassion, presence, and humanity.

Watching her care for my husband and me with such empathy reconnected me to the heart of our profession, and I am deeply grateful for that. I will carry this interaction with me on many levels moving forward. Anyone going through this challenging experience deserves to be cared for by Erin. She is exactly the kind of nurse this award was made to honor.