VA San Diego Healthcare System

VA San Diego nurse John Lallo (center) receives the "I Love a Nurse" award.

On Monday, January 29, 2018, VA San Diego Healthcare System nurse John Lallo was recognized for his nursing contributions during a ceremony at the Oceanside Clinic in which he was presented with the “I Love a Nurse” award. The award was presented on behalf of Point Loma Nazarene University with radio station Sunny 98.1. “It’s a special designation to me,” said John. “I try to support everyone the best I can. I’m just doing my job, but I like to do it well and it’s great to be recognized for that.”

John was selected among other local nursing candidates for the award. Per the Sunny 98.1 website, “several times a year, we select nursing professionals and honor them with an award presentation and later, an award luncheon.” Lallo was nominated by a VA patient and several of his fellow nurses. The citation for the award reads: “John has been a nurse for over 20 years. Everything he does is centered on the patient’s care. He listens to our Veterans and explains to them what is going on in layman terms. John is currently working on his masters in nursing.”

Lallo ‘s dedication comes from his desire for excellence and his personal experience as a patient. Years ago, John was injured working as a carpenter. With his future occupational prospects looking grim, he shifted careers and entered the nursing field. As a former inpatient, he knows what it’s like for the many of the patients he now serves. “I truly love my work,” said John. “I love taking care of Veterans and patients. If someone gets injured, I’m always there to help. That’s my calling.”