I’m writing to nominate Chelsey McLaughlin for a DAISY award in recognition of her extraordinary compassion and unwavering commitment to patient- and family-centered care. Chelsey went far beyond her role as a nurse, turning a tragic time for one family into a moment of love and hope.

Most patients staying in the STICU are relatively brief, but every once in a while, we have a patient come to us that stays for a prolonged period, allowing our team to get to know these patients and their families very well. Our team recognizes the challenges and complexities that come along with our patients, but sometimes this takes a toll on the emotions of our staff.

Earlier in the year, we had a patient who received a liver transplant and spent a considerable amount of time in our unit afterward. This was a younger patient with a spouse and two underage children. As I said, at times we get to know our patients and families very well, the spouse shared details about the emotional and mental challenges, as well as the financial burdens, they as a family were experiencing. And the timing, just before Christmas.

As goals of care discussions became more frequent, it became increasingly apparent that the patient was nearing the end of life. One particularly heartbreaking concern echoed among our team was the thought of the kids saying goodbye to a parent and losing the opportunity to celebrate Christmas as a family.

While many felt the weight of this reality, Chelsey immediately began thinking, how can we give this family one last Christmas together as a family? Chelsey got to work, buying Christmas decorations for the patient’s room, coordinating with social work to explore available resources, and engaging the STICU team for any other ideas to support the family. This was going to happen.

However, eventually the decision was made to say goodbye and withdraw care before the Christmas gathering could occur. And we learned there were no known resources to provide Christmas gifts. Did any of this stop Chelsey? Nope. While we were unable to offer a family celebration before their loss, we were still able to contribute in a meaningful way to their Christmas experience.

Through Chelsey’s leadership and compassion, the STICU team, along with a few others, came together to provide numerous gifts, ensuring each family member had something to open on Christmas morning. Even then, Chelsey’s efforts did not stop. She was so committed to this family having the best Christmas experience possible, given everything they’d gone through, that she didn’t want to risk any mix-ups with packages arriving by mail.

Ensuring this family had a Christmas was never an expectation of Chelsey’s role. She was not required to spend her time, money, or emotional energy coordinating decorations, gifts, and delivery, yet she did so willingly and selflessly. Because of her actions, this family was able to experience moments of joy during a time of profound grief. The photos and videos they later shared, filled with smiles and gratitude, are a testament to the lasting impact of Chelsey’s compassion.

Chelsey exemplifies the very spirit of the DAISY Award. Her kindness, initiative, and humanity exemplify the very best of nursing and made an unforgettable difference for this family.