When you’re navigating the hospital system as a patient or caregiver, it can often feel like you’re just a number, rushed through, unheard, and overwhelmed. But from the moment Brooke entered my mom’s hospital room, everything changed. She brought not only her clinical expertise but also a deep sense of compassion, patience, and humanity that transformed our experience. She didn’t just care for my mom; she cared about her. She spoke to her gently, always addressing her by name, never making her feel like a diagnosis or a task to be completed.

Even when my mom wasn’t fully alert or responsive, Brooke would speak to her like she was fully present, ensuring she felt dignity and respect in every interaction. That kind of empathy cannot be taught; it’s part of who she is. What stood out just as much was how she cared for me as the family caregiver. She saw my exhaustion, my anxiety, and my need to stay strong for my mom, and she made space for me, too. She asked how I was doing, took time to explain complex information in ways I could understand, and reassured me with a calm, grounded presence.

Her support reminded me that I wasn’t alone and that mattered more than she’ll ever know. Brooke also advocated for my mom in ways that went far beyond her basic responsibilities. One moment stands out vividly. Due to a misstep, my mom became extremely agitated and ended up pulling out her NG tube. It was traumatic not just physically for my mom, but emotionally for everyone who witnessed it. When Brooke came into the room, her reaction wasn’t frustration or exasperation; it was heartbreak. She wasn’t upset about the inconvenience or the cleanup. She was devastated that my mom had experienced unnecessary pain and distress; pain that could have been prevented.

That moment showed me the depth of Brooke’s compassion. Her empathy was so genuine, it brought tears to my eyes. She cared for my mom like she was her own family. She also anticipated needs before we could voice them, whether it was offering comfort items, adjusting the room for calm, or simply making sure I had a place to sit. She always noticed, always responded, and always showed up with kindness.

In a world that often prioritizes efficiency over empathy, Brooke is a shining example of what nursing is truly about: compassion, advocacy, and healing that reaches beyond the physical. She made us feel safe, seen, and genuinely cared for, not just as a patient and a caregiver, but as people. For her unwavering kindness, exceptional care, and profound humanity, I can think of no one more deserving of this DAISY Award than Brooke.