I was involved in a car accident that claimed the life of a 2-year-old child in the other vehicle, and the driver of the other vehicle was flown to a higher level of care due to severe burns. My nurse, Cloe, was with me from the time EMS arrived until I was discharged. Cloe went above and beyond when I was at my lowest and most vulnerable state. Not only did she provide exceptional medical care, but she also made sure that I felt seen, heard, and understood, whether it be through a reassuring word, letting me sob on her shoulder because I felt like I had taken a life, or simply sitting on my bed and holding my hand when it was needed most. She reassured me all day long, as I was a patient of hers from early morning until the afternoon. She never left my side long and made me smile when all I wanted to do was cry.

As I was getting overwhelmed with the number of people trying to visit, she would shut the door and allow me to gather my thoughts and feelings before letting people continue to come in, showing her compassion and understanding towards my feelings. Her dedication to patient care is matched only by her ability to make patients feel safe and not alone. If anyone deserves the DAISY Award, I believe it is Cloe.