I nominate Allie Comes for the DAISY Award for her extraordinary compassion during one of the most vulnerable times in my life. About a week before Christmas, my father was admitted to the ICU where I work, and Allie, both my friend and colleague, was assigned as his nurse. Seeing her care for my father in such a difficult situation left a profound impact on me. Every nurse knows how hard it is to be on the other side. I was in the unique position of watching someone I love be critically ill while also being part of the care team that works on the unit every day. It was overwhelming, but Allie handled everything with grace and empathy. She treated my dad with the utmost care, making sure he was comfortable and at ease despite how sick he was. She also cared for me in subtle but meaningful ways, offering a reassuring presence, clear communication, and constant support during a time when I felt incredibly vulnerable. I was able to leave the bedside and go home knowing that he was in safe hands. I was also able to attend my younger brother's college graduation. When Allie was working, I knew that my dad was being cared for.

This experience showed me a deeper level of her dedication as a nurse, one that I have always admired but now deeply understand. Allie allowed me to be family first. She allowed me to put my nursing cap away for a moment so I could be a daughter. Her ability to care for my father with such kindness while respecting the complexity of the situation exemplifies the true essence of nursing. I feel honored to call her a friend and to witness the incredible impact she makes in the lives of patients and families. My dad died, but I will remember the care and compassion she showed my father for the rest of my life.