This past October, my father, with whom I was very close with, suddenly fell ill and very rapidly declined. Alicia was there throughout his digression over a total of three days and nights. She was attentive, kind, mindful, and, even more importantly, she was humane. Keeping such compassionate sensitivity when caring for him, and treating my father with the dignity and respect that he so deserved as a human being. She never spoke as though he was already gone; she was vocal and reassuring when providing his care and addressed him when administering medications and providing his care treatment.

Thoroughly explaining what she was doing, what he might feel, and announcing her touch, to him as well as to us. He remained a person to her the entire time, never losing validity as an individual who meant something to somebody. My appreciation and gratitude for this, and to her, is tremendously inexpressible. Upon my difficult decision to allow him the rest he sought, she lastly promised his comfort, and respectful passing in peace, and stayed by his side until he had done so, guarding his dignity diligently.

Once he passed, she went above and beyond and took an extra few moments to offer once more, a kindness of sincerity and consideration, making a phone call to notify, and to comfort me on my hero’s passing. I come from a long line of healthcare professionals, a few of whom spent a great deal of time in the Intensive Care Unit. There are those who become nurses, and there are nurses who care enough; they become so much more. Thank You Alicia. Your compassion, effort, and integrity mean everything to me. Truly. You are an incredible human being.

This is Alicia's second DAISY Award!