I would like to nominate Britini Bailey, RN, for the DAISY Award based on the extraordinary compassion, empathy, and patient- and family-centered care she provided to my father and my family during one of the most devastating times of our lives.

My father was severely injured while burning papers and accidentally caught himself on fire. He was flown to the UW Madison burn unit with third-degree burns covering approximately 70% of his body. Being in healthcare myself, I understood the gravity of this condition. Unfortunately, much of my family did not have medical knowledge, which understandably led to fear, confusion, and frustration as we tried to process what was happening and what decisions we would soon have to make.

From the moment Britini became our nurse, she was exceptional. She provided calm, compassionate, and empathetic care, not only to my father, but to every member of our family. Her calm presence was exactly what was needed in that room during such an overwhelming time. She never once made us feel rushed, dismissed, or unheard.

When I arrived at the bedside, Britini gently explained that sedation had been reduced so my father could acknowledge that we were there. That small but incredibly meaningful act gave us something priceless; a few precious moments with his eyes open knowing that his family was there loving and supporting him.

Britini may never fully know what that meant to us, but it is something we will carry forever.
Working in healthcare for 15 years in the emergency department, I have supported many families through tragic situations. Nothing, however, prepares you for being on the other side; when it's your own parent and your own family facing impossible decisions. Britini understood this. She recognized the emotional weight we were carrying and supported us with patience and grace, especially as we waited for all the grandchildren to arrive before making a final decision. At no point did we feel pressured; only supported.

When the decision was ultimately made to extubate my father, Britini was again present, understanding, and compassionate. Shortly after the provider, resident, and Britini stepped out briefly to prepare orders, my father passed away peacefully with all of us at his bedside. We truly believed he needed only our permission to let go.

Immediately afterward, Britini returned to the room. She quietly turned off the alarms and monitors, giving us peace and dignity at that moment. Britini did the nursing things we have to do once someone has passed away; she walked through the necessary steps and confirmed his passing to me. The way she looked at me when it was confirmed- a shared understanding, nurse to nurse- was powerful and deeply comforting. It was one of the most human moments I've ever experienced in healthcare

Britini cared for my father with exceptional skill and dignity; she also cared for my family with extraordinary compassion. She helped us feel heard, respected, and supported during the worst day of our lives. For all these reasons, I believe Britini Bailey, RN, exemplifies everything that the DAISY Award represents and is profoundly deserving of this recognition