On April 16, my wife and I checked into Holy Cross Hospital for a scheduled C-section. While the procedure went well, what truly made our experience remarkable were the exceptional people who cared for us, especially Nurse Cindy Marquez.

Nurse Cindy was more than a nurse. She was a light in one of the most vulnerable and emotional moments of our lives. Though our baby had to be placed in the NICU, Cindy’s care for my wife during those first nights brought us peace, strength, and comfort. She consistently showed clinical excellence while embodying the very heart of nursing: compassion, attentiveness, and empathy. Whether it was guiding my wife through the challenges of postpartum recovery or simply being a calm and joyful presence, Nurse Cindy was truly extraordinary. She didn’t just provide care, she lifted our spirits, anticipated our needs, and supported us as if we were family.

Her efficiency and professionalism were unmatched. From the smallest tasks to the most meaningful moments, she was present, patient, and powerful. Cindy made our hospital stay feel less like a medical necessity and more like we were being cared for by someone deeply invested in our well-being.

For all these reasons and more, she is without question one of the best nurses we have ever encountered—and we are sure we’re not the only ones who feel that way. Nurse Cindy personifies everything the DAISY Award represents: excellence in clinical practice, compassion in care, and an enduring impact on the patient experience. We are forever grateful for the love and light she brought into our lives during such an important time.