What would we do without the dedication and hard work of nurses? They deserve recognition. In the September issue of Best Health, Johnson Insurance announced its selection of three nurses from across Canada for its 2012 Nurse Excellence Awards. Johnson asked Canadians to nominate a special nurse who has gone above and beyond for patients, and three were selected; each received $1,500 to give to the healthcare charity of her choice:

Debbie Forward, RN, of St. John's, Newfoundland. Debbie has been a nurse for 32 years and is also a union leader, teacher, patient & nurse advocate and community volunteer. Debbie has impacted and strengthened the profession of nursing with passion and dedication. She has chosen Memorial University of Newfoundland's School of Nursing as her award recipient.

Lorna Miskolczi, LPN, of Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Ten years ago, Lorna was diagnosed with bone marrow cancer. She overcame the odds and returned to nursing, without skipping a beat. People often say she puts her whole heart into what she does, and that she's an inspiration. Lorna is donating her award to Saskatoon Cancer Centre.

Ingrid Corley, RN, Englehart, Ontario. Her fellow nurses say that Ingrid is the very definition of a competent and caring nurse. She is the go-to professional when questions, problems or second opinions arise. Many colleagues say that she's the best nurse they've had the privilege of knowing. Ingrid will give her award to Englehart & District Wheelchair Bus Fundraising.

Congratulations, ladies!