Kathryn Wilkins, Midwife

From the very first time we met Kate, we felt instantly reassured. We are what many would describe as a "quirky couple". My partner is neurodivergent and can become overwhelmed and frustrated in unfamiliar environments, particularly hospitals or situations involving lots of new people. Before we had even stepped into Fetal Medicine, we were already anxious about what lay ahead. When we were told our baby was at high risk of having Edwards syndrome, our world stopped. We were presented with screening results, percentages, medical terminology, and a future filled with uncertainty. It was impossible to process.

Kate had all the facts and figures, but she did not speak to us in medical jargon. She spoke to us as people. She translated complex information into words we could actually understand and gently helped us make sense of what it all meant. She gave us space to ask questions we didn't even know how to ask and helped us put words to fears we couldn't articulate. Somehow, she made one of the hardest conversations of our lives feel manageable simply because of the way she cared. Her compassion and emotional intelligence were evident from the moment we met her. She was patient, intuitive, and incredibly perceptive. She quickly read the room, recognised my partner's triggers and mannerisms, and adapted her communication to meet his needs. She matched his tone, helped him feel safe, and never once made him feel judged or different.

Despite how busy the hospital undoubtedly was, she always made us feel as though we were her only patients. She never rushed us. Every appointment felt as though we had all the time we needed, and she made us feel heard, respected, and genuinely cared for. Then came one of the most frightening moments of my life. Following routine procedures, I experienced a traumatic haemorrhage while driving myself to A&E. Terrified, alone, losing a significant amount of blood, and unsure what to do, I called Kate. I was stopped on the red double lines outside the East Block, having a panic attack and struggling to communicate. Without hesitation, Kate came running from the Fetal Medicine Department with a colleague and a wheelchair. Despite the very limited information I could give her over the phone, she found me immediately. She stayed calm when I could not be, reassured me, got me safely into A&E, and remained by my side while I was in complete panic.

She also contacted my partner, communicating with him in a way that was both informative and compassionate, ensuring he felt supported and understood during an incredibly frightening time. Kate did not have to stay with me. Being by my side in the Resuscitation Department was far beyond what anyone would expect of her role, yet she did so without hesitation. She never made it seem like an inconvenience. She simply stayed because I needed someone. We have only met Kate a handful of times, yet she has left a lifelong impression on us. Some people come into your life for only a short while but change it forever. Kate is one of those people.

She embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for. Her compassion, empathy, professionalism, and humanity extend far beyond her clinical role. She did not just care for us as patients; she cared for us as people. She gave us strength when we had none, reassurance when we felt lost, and kindness when our world was falling apart. No award could ever truly reflect the gratitude we feel for everything Kate did for us, but I hope this nomination goes some way towards recognising the extraordinary nurse she is. We will never forget her. The impact she has had on our family will stay with us for the rest of our lives.