ICU Nurse Who 'Treats Patients Like Her Family': Castle Rock Hero

CASTLE ROCK, CO — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from proud dad Chris Blenker of Littleton, who nominated his daughter Michelle Nylund.

Where the nominee lives:
Castle Rock

Name of the nominee:
Michelle Nylund

Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:
Yes

What does the nominee do for work?:
ICU Nurse at Swedish

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?
My daughter is an RN in the ICU at Swedish, she has been on the front line caring for the sickest of the sick with COVID-19. She has spent time sitting next to many as they passed on, knowing that she didn’t want them to be alone. She has cared for her patients as if they were her own family. My daughter has had to adapt a very distinct routine in order to minimize taking this illness home to her family. She has been unable to be around the rest of her family (parents and siblings) because of her exposure. The sacrifices she has made during this time would absolutely break most people mentally but she has remained strong and compassionate. I feel she should be recognized because for being a new nurse, she has absolutely stepped up to the plate!

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:
She is someone you would want caring for your loved ones.

Thank you for all you do, Michelle!

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.