I’m writing to nominate Alexis Muir for the DAISY Award. My history is fairly remarkable since I will have survived breast cancer for 35 years this July. I was diagnosed in 1990 and endured a lumpectomy, lots of radiation, and prophylactic chemo. Our kids were only six and three at the time, and I thought I’d be dead by Christmas, so I’m very thankful.

Of course, as the years went by, I developed aortic stenosis due to the way radiation was delivered back then. Although asymptomatic, I knew this would not go away, so I began to see another doctor in 2019. He kept a close watch on me and, this past fall, told me it was time to see another doctor, whom I liked immediately.

I was, however, very concerned about the weeks following. I have two volunteer jobs, one at the Salvation Army, for which it was not that difficult to find coverage, and my music librarian and altar guild duties at church, for which coverage was a challenge. We also have four pets. Thankfully, my son was able to come home for almost two weeks and help my daughter at home with cooking, cleaning, and the animals, so she would not miss too much work.

But, back to the post-op period. Because we had met a lovely and compassionate young nurse at St. Jose’s, the way was smoothed for us. Alexis Muir is amazing! I found out later that she had been my recovery room nurse, too, and had also impressed my son and daughter. Nothing was too much for her to do for me, and I knew I had to recognize her “above and beyond” care. She even eclipsed the stellar care I received from everyone at St. Joe’s, and that is saying something. She was calm, efficient, oh so kind, and very sweet. I don’t think I’ve ever met anyone like her. I also don’t think I ever thanked anyone as often as I did Alexis!

St. Joe’s is so fortunate to have hired a nurse like her in their cardiac unit. She is extraordinary! I went home feeling prepared to meet the challenge of healing well and patiently. It is with pleasure that I nominate Alexis Muir for the DAISY Award.