Meghan Bates embodies everything a nurse should be — patient, kind, and always more than willing to help. I know that no matter how hectic the day may be, if I’m working with Meghan, everything will be okay. Whether it’s her own patient or not, Meghan is always the first to jump up and help — taking patients to the restroom, assisting with baths or boosts, grabbing supplies, or stepping in wherever she’s needed. She constantly puts others’ needs before her own and does so without complaint.

Meghan exemplifies teamwork every single day and is truly a treasure to work with. One Sunday, I was the only tech on the floor caring for 15 patients. I was overwhelmed and constantly running from room to room, barely able to take a sip of water. Meghan noticed how busy I was and, as she always does, never hesitated to help. She answered call lights, checked blood sugars I was running behind on, and took patients to the restroom. As 1500 vitals approached — a task that usually falls to the techs — Meghan urged me to take my lunch break instead. I went to lunch expecting to return to a mountain of work, mentally preparing for another exhausting stretch. To my surprise, when I came back, Meghan had already completed all 15 sets of vitals — not only for her own patients, but for every nurse on the floor. She did this quietly, without being asked, and without seeking recognition. This is the kind of person and nurse Meghan is: humble, selfless, and deeply committed to service and teamwork. Her compassion and dedication lift up everyone around her, and working with her is an absolute privilege.