05/07/2026
Itās Nurses Week!! Our heroes for real!!
This Nurses Week, weāre proud to spotlight nurses who bring compassion, skill, and dedication to every patient interaction.
Mary Crawford knew from a young age that she wanted to work with children. That calling became deeply personal during nursing school, when her nephew spent months in a cardiac intensive care unit (ICU). Watching such a small baby show incredible strength and resilience inspired her to pursue a career in cardiac intensive care.
Today, Mary is a Professional Staff Nurse at UPMC Childrenās Hospital of Pittsburgh, where she has cared for patients in the Cardiac ICU for over a decade.
She finds meaning in supporting children and their families through some of lifeās most difficult moments, while also celebrating the victories that come with healing and recovery. Mary says one of the most rewarding parts of her role is being part of a team that feels like family ā a group that collaborates closely to provide the highest level of care for their little āheart warriors.ā
Outside of work, Mary enjoys spending time outdoors with her dog, traveling with her best friend, and being āAunt Mareā to her nine nieces and nephews. A Philadelphia native who now calls Pittsburgh home, she knows the difference that an empathetic nurse can make in the most crucial times in a family's life.
"For those considering a career in nursing, my advice is to stay curious, be willing to learn every day, and never underestimate the importance of kindness and empathy," Mary shared. "Nursing can be challenging, but it is incredibly rewarding."