While recovering from a cystectomy, I had the privilege of being cared for by Ashley, whose empathy and presence made a lasting impact on me. From the moment she entered my room, Ashley brought not only exceptional clinical care but also a positive, fun—and dare I say—calming energy that made a difficult stay feel less overwhelming.

When I struggled to keep food down, Ashley didn’t just offer standard solutions—she shared her personal go-to “recipes,” like peanut butter and crackers or a mix of ginger ale and cranberry juice, to help make something taste good. That simple gesture turned a frustrating moment into one that felt human and even a little lighthearted.

What truly stood out, though, was how fiercely she advocated for me. In just the first five hours of her shift, she advocated for me at least four times. She pushed for IV meds when I was struggling to tolerate pills, and when I began to feel anxious about emptying my bladder, she made sure I received a scan quickly. These may seem like small actions, but they were pivotal in helping me feel safe, heard, and cared for. Ashley embodies the most important quality a nurse can have: the ability to be an empathetic advocate. In the moments I couldn’t advocate for myself, she showed up—consistently, compassionately, and confidently. I’m incredibly grateful for the care I received from her and wholeheartedly believe she deserves the DAISY Award.