When I arrived and was directly placed in the ICU, I felt a little unheard and automatically labeled as an addict due to my reason for being admitted. However, though my journey of withdrawal was going to be (and was not) fun or comfortable, not only did Erin sit and regularly remind me that I’m worthy of recovery and can do hard things, she made sure that I understood that I was going to make it through the inevitable challenges I ended up facing each day.

She told me she was going to not just advocate for me, but help me learn to advocate and love myself through this hardship. Because of her, I maintained the willingness, desire, and courage to stay and push through the rough times and remain sober and not leave the hospital after not “feeling comfortable” all the time. As I transition to residential rehab, I’ll always be thankful I met Erin because she is everything a nurse and person should be.

She is honest, loving, and willing to remind you that you can do it. She also went out of her way to secure little things like fun make-shift animals and even got me a chai latte to give me something to smile about.

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This is Erin's 2nd DAISY Award!