“A Blessing”: Nurse Wins New Car Following Staff Nurse of the Year Award

Christmas came early for one Houston nurse who received the surprise of a lifetime, the keys to a brand new car just days before the holidays.

Texas Children’s Hospital trauma nurse Mallory Key was one of three nurses nominated for a special holiday raffle after earning recognition for high achievement in nursing. When she reached into a box of envelopes, she didn’t expect to find a shiny new car key inside, but that key unlocked a brand new Toyota RAV4 donated by Keating Toyota.

"It’s definitely a blessing,” Mallory said. “The previous car has been having transmission issues, and now I know for Christmas I’ll be secured for my daughter and me."

A Reward for Compassion and Commitment

Earlier this year, Mallory was named Texas Children’s 2025 Staff Nurse of the Year, honored for her compassion and her dedication to what nursing is all about, service and heart. Jackie Ward, Chief Nurse Executive and Senior Vice President for Texas Children’s Hospital, explained that all three nurses in the raffle had earned major nursing awards earlier in the year.

The RAV4 marked the second time Keating Toyota donated a vehicle to a nurse within two years. For dealership owners Deborah and Anson Jones, the giveaway was especially meaningful. Anson shared that his mother once worked as an ICU nurse at Texas Children’s Hospital and that their son had also been a patient there.

“I’m just thankful that this hospital and these nurses were here for our son in his time of need,” Anson said. “We’re just so grateful and so excited to give back to the community that has given so much to us.”

A Full Circle Moment of Gratitude

Mallory, who followed in her mother’s footsteps after a 25 year nursing career, said she’s grateful to be part of a profession rooted in care.

“Sometimes, the nursing field can feel unrecognized, and you feel like a small person in a big world,” she said. “Just having that recognition truly shows I’m making an impact.”

This heartwarming surprise shows how powerful generosity can be, especially when it shines on those who give so much of themselves every day. For Mallory, this gift is not just a new car; it’s a reminder that the community she serves sees her, appreciates her, and is cheering her on this holiday season.

🤔Nurses, what’s the most meaningful recognition you have ever received as a nurse? Share your thoughts in the discussion forum below!