Mari is a strong advocate for quality patient care. She is deeply caring and addresses concerns of patients and families, following up with providers and resources. Mari is a strong support to her peers as well. She is willing to accept challenging patients and still offer support to others struggling in their shift. I have witnessed how she supported a student she is precepting when an error occurred during the discharge process. Mari was patient, calm and not punitive with the student. She is also an enthusiastic member of Unit Practice Council, promoting a culture of inquiry.

Mari receives many positive comments from her patients. One patient said, "All the staff, they are great! My wife has a list of all those who cared for me." But the patient put Mari's name at the top of the list because he said, "She is a hard worker and she was there working during my worst moments!"

Another patient who had heart surgery at UWMC wrote, "I was fortunate to have the wonderful care of Mari for the last 5 days of my 10 day stay. This wonderful nurse was so kind, gentle, and helped me in so many ways I didn't think possible. She always walked in the room with a smile and kind words. She encouraged me to take my meds, move, bathe, and sit in a chair. To me, that was a challenge, but she gave me encouragement.

"One challenge was to get out of bed without using my upper body. She helped me so much on that and was so patient! She is certainly the extraordinary nurse. You are so fortunate to have her on your staff. You can tell she loves her job."