Gretchen has been taking care of my mom's wound since January 2024, when my mom's buttocks wound got worse, it’s been a long road and is still going on. Gretchen is always in a good mood, smiling, laughing, and making these uncomfortable visits more comfortable, and she puts my mom at ease. She is always trying new things and is willing to go the extra mile; she doesn't give up and will always try again. My mom has been like a test subject for them as they have had to try new products and items on her wound that they have never done before, because nothing else was working. Gretchen did studies to figure out what would work and what else they could try. She makes the trip of going to VA twice a week a good experience rather than a painful one. We love working with Gretchen and enjoy every minute. She is very patient with my mom and really takes the time to care for her. I can tell she really enjoys what she does, and that she really cares about her patients.  She treats us with respect and even teaches me things to help take care of Mom at home when I need to do a bandage change or something. She has become like a family to us, and we wouldn't ask for any other wound care nurse to work on my mom. She deserves this award and has been a wonderful asset to the VA community.

ICARE Values:
•    Integrity: Always honest, reliable, and determined to find the right care.
•    Commitment: Cares for the Veteran like family- since January 2024, never gives up.
•    Advocacy: Goes above and beyond to find new solutions.
•    Respect: Treats the Veteran with dignity, kindness, and educates the Veteran and family.
•    Excellence: Brings kindness, laughter, and skill to every visit.