The REAL Awards 2013

ByMichelle Garrett

I’m excited to bring you information on the The REAL Awards for the second year in a row.

Last year I share how The REAL Awards were near and dear to my heart, my mother is a registered nurse and it was comforting to have her by my side during the birth of two of my children. As a young, new mom, she was always a phone call away with motherly AND medical advice that I could trust.

I ended up having my youngest son a week earlier than originally planned and my parents were unable to change their travel plans to make it to me in time. To say I was disappointed is an understatement. That was an extremely emotional time for me for numerous reasons and that was the only birth of her 9 grandchildren she missed.

The nurse that assisted me after his birth was PHENOMENAL. She could tell that it wasn’t just the typical after-delivery emotions I was experiencing. She talked me through my tears and comforted me when I explained that it was my grandmother’s birthday and close to a year since she’d passed away.

Labor and Delivery was at full capacity plus some that day, but she didn’t try to rush me through the process just to get another body in the room.  I experienced “the shakes” and it scared the nothing out of me. She convinced me I wasn’t having a nervous breakdown and it was my body’s way of adjusting after the drastic hormones change and anesthesia leaving my system. Almost six years later, I can remember her kind words and calming nature at a time when all I wanted was my mom. While she didn’t (and couldn’t) take her place, I’m grateful that I had Nurse Cee all to myself during those first few hours after delivery.

Global Honoree 2013: Pauline Ochola, Community Health Worker

That is the essence of The REAL Awards.  It was created to celebrate the work of a group of people who are often forgotten or taken for granted – healthcare workers saving lives, giving comfort, aid and support across the world.

The REAL Awards is your opportunity to nominate a healthcare worker who has inspired you.  You have until October 25th to nominate someone. Voting will begin October 26th and in January the nominees will be announced.

Is there a healthcare worker that’s made a difference in your life?