Michelle Sigur
August 2025
Michelle
Sigur
,
RN
NICU
Ochsner Baptist
New Orleans
,
LA
United States
She would cover everything and told me to focus on taking care of myself.
This nomination may not be a typical submission, but it holds significant meaning to me, and I’m grateful for the chance to share this story. I’ve struggled with my mental health for most of my life, and last Monday night, I faced one of the scariest moments of my mental health journey. Not only was I scheduled to work the next day, but I was also supposed to precept a new grad. I was terrified to call in and burden someone else with my responsibilities, which only heightened my distress. In that moment, I couldn’t help but remember a similar struggle I had around this time last year. During that difficult period, my OC Michelle was there for me in a way that I’ll never forget. When I had a therapy appointment that conflicted with my shift, Michelle generously offered her office so I could attend virtually while she took over my assignment. That simple, kind gesture meant the world to me at the time, and it stuck with me. So, when I found myself struggling again last week, I texted Michelle to let her know I was overwhelmed and unsure of what to do. Without hesitation, she reassured me that I didn’t need to worry about a thing. She would cover everything and told me to focus on taking care of myself. Since then, Michelle has continued to check in on me, offering words of encouragement and reminding me how loved I am, no matter what I'm going through. Michelle has been my OC since I started, and she has not only served as a source of strength for me mentally but also a mentor who inspires me to grow in my role. I’m sure I’m not the only one on this unit with a heartwarming Michelle story, but this one, though small, was life-changing for me. Michelle’s kindness, empathy, and support have made a lasting impact, and I believe she truly deserves this recognition.