Kirsten is the epitome of a deeply caring, exceptionally qualified, very attentive registered nurse. Our department at Mayo Clinic Health System in Barron is an ever-diverse, fast paced unit that values caring for those who live in our community, here at our own critical access hospital. Being able to keep patients locally to care for their complex needs is a core value for our staff.

We were recently privileged to care for one of our former nurses in our department for her complex medical needs. Being able to keep our former co-worker in her own community, close to her family, was very special. That's where Kirsten comes into this story. Although Kirsten had never personally worked with this former staff member, she understood the deep care that the rest of us had for her.

Kirsten consistently went above and beyond to not only emotionally support this patient and her family in the dying process, but also her fellow co-workers who were very emotionally grieving. Kirsten tuned into the emotional and physical needs of the patient, meeting her at every single step of her healthcare needs. Through the highs and the lows of the three-day work weekend, Kirsten persisted to keep the patient comfortable and informed about the care she was receiving, even when she became more critically ill.

Kirsten went above and beyond in assisting in planning a celebration for this patient. Kirsten helped coordinate a potluck of all her favorite foods and invited current staff to come celebrate. The patient invited her family and friends. We had over 40 people come to celebrate her life. Through the laughs and the tears, Kirsten supported every single person in attendance while keeping the patient at the center of her focus.

Kristen cared for our former coworker in the middle of the party, bringing medications directly to her and checking on her needs. Kirsten deserves to receive the DAISY Award as she truly embodied putting the needs of the patient first. She supported the needs of her patient/our very special former co-worker, and also the needs of her current co-workers. She held space for staff crying and "took one for the team" by stepping up to care for someone we all love very much, so we could also be able to enjoy our limited time with this person.