2018 Southeast Nurse of the Year

BrightStar Care Lubbock is proud to announce that a nurse from our agency has received the Regional Nurse of the Year award. Monica Garrett-Hughes, RN, BSN has experience in all ages of care with an expansive background that includes, teaching, military base nursing and hospitals. Monica is a lifetime learner and is currently pursuing her nurse practitioner license.

This award came as a surprise to Monica since she wasn’t aware of her nomination for the honor. Monica arrived at BrightStar Care expecting to teach a class on engaging and nursing with autistic pediatrics, instead she arrived with congratulations from her family, friends, co-workers and the family she has impacted.

BrightStar Care Lubbock’s owner, Lonny Kane, began the award presentation with a moving speech on why Monica was nominated, and how she has helped her patient, Amanda, grow. He was followed by Amanda’s father, who described how important Monica’s has been in the care for his daughter.

Below is Lonny Kane’s Speech

“Each year, BrightStar Care seeks to honor four special nurses in our system. We are beyond proud to share that one of those four is our very own Monica Garrett-Hughes, the 2018 Southeast Region Nurse of the Year.

Monica joined BrightStar Care Lubbock over 5 years ago and has been a tremendous blessing to our organization since the day she arrived. Her expertise in nursing, willingness to serve, commitment to excellence, and perseverance have made an incredible and lasting impact on all those around her.

Monica was nominated for this honor because of her amazing work and constant desire to make a difference the families she serves. She is always very passionate about nursing and seeks out a deeper understanding of her patients, especially one named, Amanda. Before meeting Amanda, Monica had no previous experience with children on the autism spectrum. However, Monica poured her heart into adapting the care that was needed for Amanda and her family. Jesus was asked, “What is the greatest commandment?” and his reply,…”love.” Monica exudes love and emulates Christ in her care. Her patient, kind and loving care allowed Amanda to grow, while her willingness to share her knowledge supported the growth of her co-workers.

Monica, today the team here at BrightStar and Amanda’s family would like to thank you. Thank you for your love, kindness, dedication and hard work. We are proud to say that the Southeast Region winner came from our agency. Congratulations Monica! We are so proud of you!

I want to thank you all for being here today to celebrate how Monica is making a difference here on the South Plains.”

Monica will be joining our leadership team at our national conference. During the conference her story will be shared with franchise leaders and a national nurse of the year recipient will be announced. The winner will receive $5,000 for continuing education.

If you would like to see Monica’s surprise reveal, watch the video below.

To learn more about how our nurses are making a difference in the pediatric community follow us on Facebook, Instagram or join our talent community.