Throughout advent, we're highlighting those who work hard throughout the year - and at Christmas - to keep Norfolk and Waveney's health service ticking over.

This countdown of those we count on will focus on a different person or individual every day up until Christmas, celebrating our healthcare heroes.

Emilia Shurmer, nurse at James Paget University Hospital's intensive care unit

A nurse who won a prestigious Eastern Daily Press award for her dedication will be looking after patients who need round-the-clock care during the Christmas holidays.

Emilia Shurmer won the EDP Gold Patient's Choice award at this year's James Paget Remarkable People Awards for her work caring for patients in the hospital's Intensive Care Unit.

Her nominations for the award all highlighted how she goes the extra mile when it comes to offering compassionate care for some of the most severely ill patients in the hospital.

One nomination simply said: 'An amazing, capable and dedicated nurse – I cannot speak more highly of her ability to care for her patients - her outstanding, professional and remarkable commitment to each individual is incredible.'

Earlier this year, Emilia received a visit - and flowers - from a former patient who spent several weeks on ICU after a pulmonary embolism.

'If it wasn't for Emilia, I wouldn't be on this planet,' he said.

• To read about other holiday health heroes, click on a door on the advent calendar above.