Mother-daughter duo inspire through nursing at HCA Florida Englewood Hospital

This year, during National Nurses Week and Mother’s Day, HCA Florida Englewood Hospital is celebrating a special bond between two of its own: registered nurses Molly Bakulski and her daughter, Lily Bakulski.

Both work in the hospital’s medical-surgical unit, where their shared passion for patient care is rooted in personal experiences. Molly, a nurse for 20 years, is the Englewood Hospital recipient of the 2025 Excellence in Nursing Award for Compassionate Care and a DAISY Award — a national recognition for nurses who go above and beyond to provide not only excellent clinical care, but also compassion. She was inspired to become a nurse by the care she witnessed during her own mother’s hospitalization.

Lily joined the hospital in 2024 after earning her nursing degree. Her decision to pursue nursing was shaped by the care she received as a child while battling asthma and pneumonia.

“Having her graduate and want to come to HCA Florida Englewood Hospital has been like a dream come true,” said Molly. “When I get out of bed in the morning, knowing I get to work with her gives me motivation. Lily is driven, confident, efficient and not afraid to take charge. I know she will be a leader one day and this opportunity has given her great experience. When I round on our patients, I hear that she is giving excellent care.”

“I grew up with an amazing nurse. My mom’s patients love her. It was so cool to be able to follow her around when I was little and I knew I wanted to be the person that gets to take care of patients,” said Lily. “She is compassionate, empathetic, funny and also an advocate for what her patients need and want. She’s my best friend.”

The Bakulskis’ story reflects the heart of HCA Healthcare’s mission: to care for and improve human life. HCA Florida Englewood Hospital honors the dedication, leadership and compassion of its nurses this Nurses Week.