My son broke both arms this past weekend and, after being in tremendous pain for over 16 hours, was exhausted when Kenya became his nurse. She quickly responded when I called for a nurse, came to our room, and diligently tracked down doctors to get pain medicine. She went out of her way to get several cracker options for him to eat. He is only 7 and had been upset earlier by an IV that was very painful and was anxious to have it removed. Kenya very patiently and carefully applied water and gently took her time to remove the IV, not rushing him. She was so respectful and honoring toward him, and she made him feel so noticed and heard! She was the first person – nurse or doctor – to ask what his pain level was, genuinely care, and listen. When she heard me explain I was concerned about how I would get his films to take to our orthopedic doctor at home, she took it upon herself to personally escort me to records, stayed with me while I acquired what I needed, and spoke encouraging words of comfort and understanding as we walked back to my son's room.

It’s important to note that while we are very grateful for all the care my son received, we were there for 11 hours, and I think she was only our nurse for the last two. She was just what we needed, providing care, dignity, respect, gentle leadership, and confidence when we needed it most.

I truly hope Kenya will be honored, as it is very clear this is how she treats everyone. Many people can rise to the occasion in a crisis, but the humility, kindness, skill, and wisdom Kenya seems to have come naturally to her, serving in a million small ways that add up to a big difference. Thank you, Kenya!