Having 29-week twins in the NICU and a toddler at home is one of the most difficult situations a young family can experience. We became that young family. I’m writing this as I sit in the NICU next to my two babies who are now four weeks into life.

It is important to me to write this today because an outstanding nurse has given such tremendous and compassionate care to my babies and deserves this award. She is knowledgeable, observant, and meticulous; gentle, kind, and thorough. 

When she’s here taking care of one or both of my babies, I feel like I leave the hospital doors without holding my breath. In a matter of days, she established a bond of trust with us so strong that we feel relief flood over us when we see her. To be clear, it’s not because we have received inadequate care from other nurses. Felicia shines because she is so unique in her abilities and so compassionate. 

From printing informational materials to double-checking eye appointments; from answering hours of questions to simply listening to a stressed-out parent talk, she has been there and made time. She has even cared for members of our family she’s never met. Our toddler at home has received multiple notes from her “sisters” encouraging her as she starts preschool in this stressful time and sending her love.

Felicia may never know what fruit the seed she planted will bear, and that’s the beauty of her care. It comes from an authentic heart. She deserves every accolade, every opportunity to shine, and bigger stages to share her knowledge and practice with other nurses. I’m truly honored and thrilled to nominate her.