David Grayson, NICU Nurse
Northwestern Prentice Women’s Hospital

"On April 18, 2025, our daughter Sophia was admitted to the Northwestern NICU shortly after delivery via C-section for respiratory distress. We were terrified when, just hours after birth, Sophia turned blue while resting on her mom, Rebecca’s, chest and was rushed to the NICU.

As the mother, having just undergone surgery with complications, I was unable to go to the NICU right away. However, my husband, and Sophia’s father, accompanied her. David, her nurse, offered reassurance and explained everything in detail. He went above and beyond, even teaching us about bathing, burping, and feeding.

As first-time parents with no family nearby, this support meant the world to us. Thankfully, we only spent one day in the NICU, but we felt truly blessed to have such a caring and supportive nurse in David during both days of our hospital stay.

As both a current (dad) and former (mom) healthcare worker, we know how challenging it can be to provide such compassionate, patient-focused care in today’s healthcare climate. We are beyond grateful for the kindness, expertise, and support shown by David, RN, and the entire NICU team.”

Nominated by Rebecca Pasch-Benning

"David has been a NICU nurse for 25 years. His knowledge, attention to detail, and gentle touch are superb! All three of our children have been in the NICU. David provides a sense of comfort that we have never experienced before. His exceptional ability to pay attention to detail and also see us as people and not just “mom and dad” is heartwarming and makes us feel welcome and connected to our little warrior’s care expert. David deserves all the accolades!”

Nominated by Shayna Daytani