Hugs, smiles, and congratulatory wishes were all around when Kelley Vine, RN, was announced as the 2025 Claire Puklin Award winner, earlier this year.
The award is given to a deserving urologic nurse who exemplifies the late Claire Puklin’s passion for patients of Yale New Haven Health (YNHHS).
Erica LaBella, RN, and the Holmium Laser Enucleation of the Prostate (HoLEP) team of providers nominated Vine for the award.
“Vine exemplifies the YNHHS mission,” says LaBella. “She is a trusted clinical expert, dedicated mentor, and tireless advocate for her patients and colleagues.”
One of Vine’s roles is to ensure HoLEP patients transition smoothly from surgery to aftercare.
“She coordinates timely appointments, assists with diagnostic procedures, verifies pre-operative requirements, and ensures seamless post-operative follow-up,” says LaBella.
Daniel Kellner, MD, who was the first in Connecticut to perform the HoLEP procedure, continues to build the program with his team. Combined, he and the other providers have done more than 2,500 HoLEP's. Kellner says Vine has been essential.
"She has helped elevate HoLEP at Yale to a destination procedure," says Kellner. "Her remarkable ability to communicate with patients and alleviate their anxiety about the surgery is truly impressive."
Kellner's colleague, Jason Lee, MD, agrees.
“Our patients trust her completely, and so do we,” says Lee. “She holds herself and our team to the highest standards, ensuring every patient receives meticulous, compassionate, and seamless care. Her commitment and pride in her work elevates our entire team, and she is truly a joy to work with.”
The annual award was established in 2013 after Puklin’s untimely death from pancreatic cancer. She was a urology nurse at Yale New Haven Hospital for more than 30 years and was known for making patient care a priority.
“Vine is recognized by all for her compassion, innovation, and commitment to patient-centered care,” says Diana Glassman, MSN, MBA, director of clinical programs. “She has played a vital role in the development and continued growth of the HoLEP surgical program.”
“In every way,” says LaBella, “Vine embodies the spirit of Claire Puklin’s legacy.”