The CLC proudly honors Mr. Nolan Kinne, RN, a beacon of compassion, expertise, and unwavering dedication. Though Nolan’s primary home unit is the ICU 6A, he selflessly extends his support to the CLC, always ready to bolster our staffing, share his wealth of knowledge, and shower the unit with his positive vibes! His generosity in sharing critical thinking skills elevates our entire team, transforming routine care into moments of true teaching and inspiration.

He is more than a nurse; he is a role model and an educator, sitting patiently beside our veterans, taking all the time needed to ensure they receive not just care, but understanding, wellness, and hope. I have watched Nolan embody calm and steadiness during the most intense CLC emergencies. His confident guidance and unwavering composure ensure that our veterans receive the best possible outcomes, as he skillfully leads our team through times of stress toward reassurance and outstanding collaboration.

One recent evening exemplifies Nolan’s extraordinary character. On December 4th, a veteran in our CLC was deteriorating rapidly and needed urgent assessment in the emergency department. The veteran was transferred to the ICU, and the following day, I received a call from the Nursing Supervisor requesting my assistance with an upset family. The veteran had preferred no one be notified that he was going to the Emergency department for further evaluation; when the family arrived to find their father in the ICU, they were overwhelmed with emotion, sadness, confusion, and frustration. I reached out to the family, hearing their emotions and questions.

Both veterans’ daughters were at his bedside in the ICU. They were upset that they did not know he was there. I explained that Dad did not want to worry them. I ensured that I collaborated with his current nurse for clear communication and to address the family’s frustration. When I asked the veteran's daughter if she knew who their father’s nurse was that day, they said, “Nolan.” Without hesitation, I assured them, “Your dad is in the very best hands with Nolan.” The daughter gently put the phone aside, recognized Nolan’s name, and asked, “Are you, Nolan?” I confirmed, and her heart seemed calm. She whispered, “The CLC manager said you will take the very best care of my dad and his family,” and that moment of trust and reassurance was palpable.

Together, I, the veteran’s family, and Nurse Nolan collaborated on the plan of the day. Emotions disappeared, and trust was established. I continued speaking with the veteran’s daughter, and her gratitude poured out not just for the expert care but for Nolan’s kindness, during times of family stress and confusion. Nolan’s dedication to supporting families, listening beyond clinical tasks, shines brightly. His compassion in those moments exemplifies what it truly means to care beyond medical needs, into the realm of the heart. During the remainder of Nolan’s shift, he provided care not only to an ICU patient but also supported the entire family.

Nolan consistently demonstrates the ICARE Values in every interaction with staff members, veterans, and their families. In addition to embodying the ICARE principles, Nolan also seeks to foster a positive and engaging environment. Outside of work, he mentors adolescent boys at his local church, engaging them in playful activities such as Nerf Gun sessions. He is now bringing that same spirit of fun and engagement to our Community Living Center with the inaugural “Operation Safe Barrage,” a playful Nerf Gun activity designed to connect veterans in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.

Nolan Kinne is more than a phenomenal nurse; he is a compassionate leader whose dedication and kindness significantly impact those he cares for. His commitment and humanity make a meaningful difference in the lives of veterans and their families. A huge thank you.