Over the last few months, William “Bill” Connolly IV, Nilda “Nene” Hughes and Elvin Perez were each honored with surprise celebrations as this year’s TULIP Award recipients. The TULIP (Touching Unique Lives In Practice) Award recognizes our patient care associates, medical assistants and emergency services assistants for going above and beyond to provide outstanding, compassionate care to patients and families.

Read more about them in excerpts from their nominations.

William “Bill” Connolly IV
Patient Care Associate, PCA Float Pool, Floated to Braunwald Tower 10A

“On a shift where Bill was floated to 10A, a patient had a rapid response situation. Bill was calm and collected and knew exactly how to help. He immediately sprang into action Bill’s demeanor and sense of control had a truly positive impact on the situation, calming the patient and obtaining all of the information that the arriving care team would ask for. He was a valuable team member, and the nurses on 10A want to thank him!”—Nina Beauvais, BSN, RN, Braunwald Tower 10A

Nilda “Nene” Hughes
Medical Assistant, Gretchen S. and Edward A. Fish Center for Women’s Health

“Last month, I was dealing with one of the scariest moments of my life and career—I had severe anxiety and depression and was suffering from debilitating panic attacks. When I arrived at my appointment, Nene greeted me with a warm smile and asked me how I was doing. She asked what brought me in that day, and when I replied that I was broken, she responded, ‘You are not broken, just bent.’ Her words really resonated with me and truly meant so much. I know that Nene does a phenomenal job in her work every day, but on this particular day, her kindness, humility and sincere and genuine care and concern for her patients shined through and made such a huge difference for me. When I got back home, I wrote down what she said so I could remind myself if I ever feel that way again. Thank you.”—Patient

Elvin Perez
Patient Care Associate, Shapiro 8EW

“Elvin was my PCA during my recent unexpected stay on the Cardiac Unit. He was present every day and became my anchor; he has a wonderful presence. Elvin is warm from the outset, put me at ease and allowed my daughter to feel she could leave knowing I was in good hands because he assured her that he would check on me all night. Elvin is a natural around people. He is kind, skilled and compassionate. He has a gift. What a gem! Thank you, Elvin!”—Patient

Learn more about the TULIP Award and how to nominate a staff member here.