Valerie Tomlinson was named East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust’s first-ever Star of the Month after winning a public vote with more than 1,400 votes cast.
The award, which recognises staff who embody the trust’s values and make a positive impact on patients and colleagues, was presented in a ceremony at the hospital.
Ms Tomlinson said: “I’m really honoured to receive this award and completely surprised to have been nominated.
“Looking after babies and supporting their families is a privilege.
“I just try to treat every baby as if they were my own and give them the same care, love and attention that I would want for my own family.
“This recognition means a lot, but it’s also a reflection of the fantastic team I work alongside every day in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).”
She was nominated by Chloe Dawson, whose son Tommy was born at just 25 weeks and three days on April 2, 2026, weighing only 1lb 12oz.
Tommy spent 133 days in the NICU, during which time Ms Tomlinson became a familiar source of support and reassurance for the whole family.
Ms Dawson described her as “vibrant, kind and someone who warms up any room she’s in.”
She said that Ms Tomlinson’s positivity made a huge difference during difficult times, and that she cared for Tommy “how you’d love and care for your own children”.
Ms Dawson said: “Valerie’s compassion, kindness and dedication helped make an incredibly challenging journey easier for our whole family.
“We will always be grateful for the care she gave Tommy and the support she showed us.”
The award was presented by Martin Hodgson, chief executive of East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.
Mr Hodgson said: “Technical skill and clinical excellence matter enormously, but what families often remember most is how somebody made them feel.
“Valerie’s compassion, positivity and unwavering support left a lasting impact at a moment when it was needed most.
“Colleagues within NICU tell me that many families remember Valerie by name long after they have left our care, perhaps the greatest compliment any healthcare professional can receive.
“It was clear why Valerie’s nomination resonated so strongly despite an exceptionally strong field.
“She represents the very best of healthcare and, indeed, the very best of ELHT.”