My dad is 97 and his tri-weekly appointments to cardiac rehab are the highlights of his week. While the rehab unit creates a very friendly and welcoming atmosphere, it's Crystal Caudill, his rehab nurse, that is the drawing card for my dad. Crystal understands how lonely 97 can become. So, she took time to really know and understand daddy when he reluctantly showed up after a TAVR procedure. Crystal takes a personal interest in him and frets over him like he's part of her family.

My dad and Crystal have a sweet and funny relationship in which she knows exactly how to make him feel seen and valued. She even showed up in his hospital room once to watch TV with him. He lights up in her presence and seems to feel and act 20 years younger when he interacts with her. Some days she even holds his hand and walks him to the car. That's when I always notice an extra spring in his step. Because of this time with Crystal, his rehab sessions are part rehab, part mental health therapy, and a huge dose of personal interaction. Even though she's only with him three days a week, I attribute part of my dad's health, good humor, and wellbeing to Crystal's presence in his life. Because I'm a concerned daughter who lives 90 minutes away, Crystal also cares for me by texting me after each rehab session with an update on my dad. I think Crystal Caudill is the epitome of what the DAISY Award represents.