Carly Sattler, NICU Nurse
Northwestern Prentice Women's Hospital
Nominated by Maureen Ventura

"From the moment our son, Rico, was born prematurely at 33 weeks, Carly was a constant source of care, guidance, and unwavering support. Her expertise and dedication not only ensured the best possible care for our baby but also gave us invaluable emotional support as parents navigating an overwhelming time.

Our son’s journey in the NICU began with uncertainty. As new parents, we were scared and exhausted, but from the first moment we met Carly, we felt relief. She was calm, compassionate, and incredibly knowledgeable. She took the time to explain every procedure, every test, and every step in our son’s care, helping us understand what was happening and why. Her patience in answering our questions, no matter how small or repetitive, made us feel informed and empowered.

What set Carly apart was her ability to care for both our baby and us. She didn’t just address Rico’s medical needs—she saw us as parents and understood our emotional journey. She supported us when we felt uncertain, offered practical advice when we needed it most, and advocated for us during difficult decisions. When we were overwhelmed, she was a calm presence, reassuring us that our baby was in the best hands.

Thanks to Carly’s tireless commitment, Rico made remarkable progress. Over his nine-week stay in the NICU, her attention to detail—whether monitoring his breathing, adjusting his feeding schedule, or offering gentle encouragement—helped him thrive. But it wasn’t just her clinical skills that made a difference. It was her genuine love for what she does, her ability to connect with families, and her unwavering belief in the strength of both the babies and their parents. She even built a connection with our parents, making them feel comfortable and included during visits.

Rico is now thriving at home, a testament to the incredible care he received in the NICU, and we owe so much of that success to Carly. She not only helped him survive but also helped him grow and flourish—something we will be forever grateful for.

In the whirlwind of the NICU, it’s easy to feel lost and alone. But Carly was a steady guide, someone we trusted, and someone who made all the difference during a time of great uncertainty. Her dedication to her patients and their families is beyond exceptional, and she is more than deserving of recognition for the profound impact she has made on our family and so many others.

We are deeply grateful to Carly for all she has done. She is, without a doubt, an outstanding NICU nurse, and we can think of no one more deserving of this honor.”