It’s hard to put into words the kind of light Christina brings into our unit every time she walks through the door. She radiates positivity, compassion, and an unwavering dedication to her patients and fellow staff. From the moment her shift begins, it’s clear that she isn’t just here to do her job; she’s here to make a difference.

One of the most remarkable things about Christina is her attitude. No matter how hectic the day may be, she shows up with a smile on her face and a contagious energy that lifts the spirits of everyone around her. Whether she’s sharing a goofy joke or simply checking in on a coworker who looks like they need a pick-me-up, she always goes out of her way to bring joy to the unit.

But don’t let her fun-loving personality fool you—when it comes to patient care, Christina is all in. She consistently goes above and beyond for her patients. She takes the time to ensure her feet feel clean, comfortable, and respected, assisting with showers and personal care without hesitation. Her patients feel truly cared for, which is evident in the way they respond to her. They aren’t just numbers or rooms on a list—they’re people, and Christina makes sure they feel seen, heard, and valued.

One example of this stands out clearly. During a particularly uncomfortable procedure—a Foley catheter placement Christina went out of her way to ensure the patient’s comfort. She knew the patient was anxious, so she asked another staff member to come in and hold the patient’s hand while she gently explained what she was doing.

Christina is also a knowledgeable and generous mentor. New nurses and seasoned staff alike look to her for guidance. She is always willing to share her knowledge, answer questions, and demonstrate best practices. When Christina is working, the atmosphere in the unit noticeably shifts. There’s more laughter, more camaraderie, and more kindness. She has an intuitive ability to sense when someone is struggling and takes the time to lift them up, even if it means going out of her way. She embodies the true spirit of nursing—not only with her clinical skills, but with her heart.

For all the times she’s made us laugh when we wanted to cry, for every patient she’s treated with dignity and care, for the guidance she provides to her peers, and for the unwavering positivity she brings to our team, Christina is more than deserving of the DAISY Award. She is the kind of nurse we all strive to be, and we are beyond lucky to have her.