I was recently admitted for surgery. When I woke up after surgery, I was in a lot of pain. I was feeling a mix of emotions. Once I was rolled down to my recovery room, I was greeted by the most wonderful nurse who quickly calmed me down with his gentle nature. I had never had a surgery like this before, so I didn’t know what to expect.

Once my family entered the room with me, Nurse Alex wrote out on the whiteboard the four chronological goals that I needed to complete before being discharged safely. He was present for all of them and wanted to make sure that I had the assistance I needed. He was extremely timely in post-op check-ins, making sure my pain was well-controlled and replenishing my ice chips and water often.

When it came to the point that I had to use the restroom for the first time, he made me feel extremely comfortable during a very vulnerable time. I never felt more at ease or cared for. His compassion and skill were expressed in even the smallest of details. He even planned his schedule around mine so we could eat at the same time, so he would be back in time for me to go on my first walk around the floor. If that doesn’t show an extraordinary nurse with dedication to his patients, I am not sure what would.

After completing all my goals and receiving well-explained discharge instructions, Nurse Alex got me into my wheelchair to roll me out to my ride. My family member then noticed that he had a couple of DAISY pins attached to his badge, stating she was not surprised he had received such a prestigious award. Humbly, he responded that the pins represented nominations, but he would not stop trying to be a DAISY Award Honoree.

I thought, 'I have never had a nurse demonstrate the hospital’s mission and core values so well. How has he not yet received this award?' I knew that I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to nominate Nurse Alex. The hospital is very lucky to have such a fantastic nurse, and I believe it is finally time for him to get the DAISY Award that he so clearly deserves.

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Alex was a ray of sunshine for the day. He took the time to explain what was happening and how it would impact me at that time. He took the time to listen and hear what I was saying. He offered suggestions and helped to implement them. When I found I had to stay because of a test result that was irregular, he calmly explained why and encouraged me to stay positive. He made the whole hospital experience less stressful.

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Alex treated me so very well. He understood my feelings and needs after surgery. He was so kind to my family member, and he was so very helpful when we needed assistance. I cannot begin to say enough good things about Alex. I feel that I was treated as a human being, with compassion, rather than just as a patient.

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I had surgery and was fortunate to be taken care of by a great nurse named Alex. He is one of the kindest and gentlest nurses I’ve come in contact with. I felt super vulnerable recovering from anesthesia. I was having trouble staying awake for many hours after surgery. It was scary. I’ve never had that type of reaction to it. Alex made me feel safe and cared for.

He constantly checked on me and made sure I was ok and my dignity was intact. I needed help with everything when I finally completely woke up and went to get up for the first time. At first, I was embarrassed by it. But Alex was super comforting. He reminded me that I shouldn’t be and that he was there to help. I’m super grateful I had Alex for my nurse. He is hands down one of the best to do it and the true definition of what it means to be a nurse. Your hospital is super lucky to have him representing them.