This week, we shine a well-deserved holiday spotlight on Chona Hamrock
, MPH, BSN, RNC-NIC, a dedicated staff nurse at Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). With an impressive 30 years of service, Hamrock embodies the spirit of nursing, providing exemplary care and unwavering support to families during some of their most challenging times. Her remarkable contributions and heartfelt connections with her patients have earned her the title of Nurse of the Week.
Hamrock is not only a staff nurse delivering direct bedside care but also a preceptor for new staff and a charge nurse when needed. She teaches Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) courses and TeamSTEPPS (Team Strategies and Tools to Enhance Performance and Patient Safety) and is an Anne Arundel Community College faculty member. Her commitment to education and mentorship further highlights her dedication to nursing and the next generation of nurses.
One of the most touching aspects of Hamrock’s career is her enduring relationship with Avery Jo Katski. She was born prematurely 13 years ago and spent time in the NICU under Hamrock’s care. As Avery Jo’s nurse, Hamrock was there for her and her family at a critical time. This year marks the 13th anniversary of a heartwarming tradition that Avery Jo and her mother, Ashley, started as a way to give back to the NICU staff who cared for them during their difficult time. Each holiday season, the Katski family donates beautifully crafted “Avery Jo’s Angel Trees” to families in the NICU, spreading joy and comfort during the holidays.
Avery Jo’s journey began with a challenging start; she was born six weeks early and weighed a healthy 5 lbs. 13 oz. Despite the circumstances, she thrived under the care of dedicated nurses like Hamrock. Ashley says this tradition began after a particularly emotional Mother’s Day when she had to leave the hospital without her newborn.
The NICU nurses made a sweet little card for Ashley from Avery Jo for Mother’s Day. Inspired by the love and support from the NICU staff, she decided to create a way to give back to families facing similar challenges. “It made me think about all the holidays where families had to go home without their precious babies, and that’s when the idea of creating Avery Jo’s Angel Trees for Christmas was born,” she says.
Hamrock expresses her deep bond with Avery Jo.
“My bond with Avery Jo is a testament to the enduring connection we’ve shared since I was her caregiver 13 years ago. As her nurse, I was there for her and her family at a critical time. Now, seeing her return every year to donate her Angel Christmas trees, a gesture of generosity and love, she brings joy to our patients during the holiday season, thus completing the circle of care and compassion that she gives back to our NICU patients.
Hamrock says Avery Jo is a kind and thoughtful young woman. “It’s so rewarding to see her grow and thrive. Watching her blossom into a beautiful, compassionate person gives me great pride and affection. Our bond is truly special, rooted in care, gratitude, and mutual admiration.”
This year, Avery Jo and her family donated 40 trees to the NICU, continuing a tradition that has evolved from a few trees into a heartfelt event involving family and friends. Each tree is gifted to families who will spend time in the NICU during the holidays, adding a touch of holiday spirit and warmth to those who need it most.
Chona Hamrock’s dedication to her patients, her role as a mentor, and her special bond with Avery Jo exemplify the true essence of nursing. Her commitment to nurturing not only the health of her patients but also their spirits highlights the profound impact nurses have on families during critical times. Congratulations, Chona, for being named our Nurse of the Week! Your compassionate care and dedication are truly inspirational!
Nominate a Nurse of the Week! Every Wednesday, DailyNurse.com features a nurse making a difference in the lives of their patients, students, and colleagues. We encourage you to nominate a nurse who has impacted your life as the next Nurse of the Week, and we’ll feature them online and in our weekly newsletter.
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