Makenzie has been an incredible primary nurse for a medically complex NICU baby for the 5 months he was admitted to the NICU. She selflessly cared for him throughout his stay, has been invested in his care and outcomes, and has been his number-one fan and advocate throughout his journey. She has supported the parents in coping with the complex medical needs he has and will likely continue to have throughout his life.

Makenzie worked tirelessly to help prepare this family for life at home, making sure they were as prepared as they could be to take a baby with a tracheostomy, ventilator, and gastrotomy tube home for the first time. She made sure the family felt supported, even writing special notes for the family during their “rooming in” process. Some of these notes were titled “open when you get here for room in”, “open when you’re scared or overwhelmed”, and “open when you made a mistake”. This was her way of showing them support even when she wasn’t at work that day. She has truly gone above and beyond, giving her whole heart to this baby and his family. I am in awe of the nurse she already is and am excited to see her continue to grow in her nursing career.