Ann King: Dedicated to her work and to her patients

posted September 13th, 2009

Everyone needs a hero and she is mine.

Ann King, RN, North Duke Street Clinic, received the Clinical Award Quarterly Ambulatory Strength Hope and Caring Award. She received 19 nominations -- the most ever for a person! One of her nominators said:

"I first met Ann back in the late 80's; she was and still is a person of raving sunshine. In 1988, while she was working in the high risk OB/Gyn clinic in the private Diagnostic Clinic, I was a pregnant and scared patient. She was my nurse and I remember her asking me if I was diabetic and I said yes. My blood sugar was 425. With no education about how to treat my body being pregnant and a diabetic, Ann took the time to talk with me about the seriousness of bringing a new baby into the world with good health and good blood sugar. Her voice was that of an angel. I could see that she was dedicated to her work and her patients. I later had a healthy baby boy and am still touched by Ann's strength, the hope she gave me and the caring person that she is. She has made such a difference in my life and is my hero.

I later went back to school to get my CNA because of the encouragement Ann gave me about taking care of myself and my little boy, who is now 20 years old. Ann also gave me the inspiration to learn all I could about diabetes.

I kept in touch with Ann through friends and years later applied for a position at the North Duke Street Clinic where Ann is now the Nurse manager. I remember calling her about the job and was so happy to hear her voice that I forgot to mention the job. I later called back and interviewed for the position and got the job. My mother came with me to the interview and she told me that she felt that Ann was a lady of high standard. She also said that she wouldn't worry about me knowing that I would be working under Ann's wing. I learned quickly that Ann had goals for me and expected the best from me every day.

I am still working for Ann at NDS today. She is like a mother to me as well as a dear friend and a true professional, one who takes care of everyone in her life. She gives her staff, patients and providers strength, hope and most of all caring. She is an amazing woman who always shows professionalism and does not accept the word "can't" from her staff.

Everyone needs a hero and she is mine."