I first met Suzanne last June when I had a hip replacement. Unfortunately, due to complications, I had to come back and have another surgery on the same hip. Suzanne was part of my care team again. Suzanne has shown me nothing but compassion when I have been feeling alone in this fight. She has encouraged me in ways you would only expect your family to. Suzanne has lifted me up when I wanted to fall.

I can’t thank her enough for treating me as an individual and sticking up for me, even if that meant she had to go against her colleagues; she didn’t care. I have a genetic condition that a lot of people are just starting to become familiar with, and she treats me with fragile care. She understands and listens, it’s so hard to put into words, but Suzanne gives me hope still in a healthcare system that I personally have seen dwindle over the years. She deserves to be recognized for her leadership and empathy, which is like no other nurse I have ever met.

She took the time to speak with my mom, who is also an RN, who unfortunately couldn’t always be present during my stay. She talked to her on the phone, reassured her, and kept her word in giving me the best care she possibly could. And even when she didn’t have my case one day, she still came to see me and still made her presence known. I just love Suzanne, and I wish we had more nurses like her. I’ve been battling health issues for over 15 years, and Suzanne will always stand out as a bright light in my life. Thank you, Suzanne, for giving me hope.