2000 Founders Award Winner

After graduating from Boston Children’s Hospital School of Nursing, Laura began her pediatric nursing career at Children’s Hospital National Medical Center in 1967. Laura was chosen by Dr. Randolph to assist him in the care of pediatric surgical patients. What followed was a collegial partnership, which advanced the field of pediatric surgery. Some consider Laura Flanigan the founder of pediatric surgical nursing. John Randolph, MD, wrote, “….a wonderful, brilliant, perceptive nurse who enriched my life and made me a better surgeon.” Her nursing colleague wrote, “What is truly outstanding in Laura’s practice is the humanitarian energy and effort that she brings to each patient and family that she encounters.” Laura was honored to receive the Founder’s Award, she said, “APSNA is an organization that is filled with so many who demonstrate the Excellence of Pediatric Surgical Nursing for which this is award is given. Surely there is no greater honor than being recognized by those who know and understand what it is that you do.”