Recognition

Avery Awards of Excellence in Nursing

Melanie Maruish

CAMC Women and Children’s Hospital 

Charleston, West Virginia

Melanie was nominated by Amanda Bean, our West Virginia HUB Leader. This is her story: On July 18th 2011 we had a son born with gastroschisis, his name was Josiah. We had many fantastic nicu nurses, but one definitely stood out among the rest. Melanie Mariush made such a huge difference during his nicu stay. She would go above and beyond for him time and time again. She worked nights and was always spoiling our little guy, it was so comforting to leave the hospital at night knowing he was taken care of. Melanie also helped us communicate with the doctors and made sure all of our concerns were addressed. Her outstanding care didn’t stop at nicu discharge, every future hospitalization she came by to check on Josiah, and she even attended his funeral. I am forever thankful for all that she’s done for our family!

Entire NICU Staff

Niswonger Children’s Hospital

Johnson City, Tennessee

Little 4-month-old Tripp was born with gastroschisis and has been in the neonatal intensive care unit at Niswonger Children’s Hospital since birth. He is awaiting a bowel transplant after having 98 percent of his small intestines removed shortly after birth. His extended family is so grateful for the special care and attention he’s received that they nominated the entire NICU nursing staff for an Award of Excellence from the Avery’s Angels Gastroschisis Foundation. The family presented the award on May 15th to the NICU nurses.

Kelley

Wolfson Children’s Hospital

Jacksonville, Florida

Kelley a nurse in the Newborn Intensive Care Unit at Wolfson Children’s Hospital, was presented with the Excellence in Nursing Award from AAGF. She is one of five that won the award. Shes pictured with Aleyece who she took care of in the NICU. Her Mom Amber nominated Kelley for the award and presented to her on May 22nd in front of the NICU.

Tanya Mattern

Oakwood Hospital and Medical Center

Dearborn, Michigan

Eric pictured with Tanya and his parents delivered the award to her yesterday. She was beyond grateful for his parents nominating her.

Danielle Beckwith

UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital 

Cleveland, Ohio

Daniel and his nurse Danielle Beckwith pictured with the award, his parents nominated her for the award.