Ester Mendoza made a difference for me on not just one occasion, but many. As a nursing student, I met Ester Mendoza for the first time in January of 2018 as my preceptor for my NICU clinical rotation. Ester was incredible and provided me with a well-rounded and in-depth clinical experience in the NICU and I made it a priority to have her for the remainder of my rotations. Her dedication to her babies' health, comfort and well-being, and their parents truly expressed to me what it means to be a nurse that practices to the absolute top of their license.
Ester did so, so much that I pursued a care tech position in the same unit. Since becoming a care tech and now working alongside Ester, she has continued to exemplify providing the ultimate care and the epitome of a nursing educator. Each day I am made a better care tech and developing nurse because of her drive to help me succeed. If I have questions, she answers them to the best of her ability. If I am not sure how to complete a skill, she patiently shows me how.
Ester is an essential cornerstone to the unit and ensures that all feel welcome and at home here; she has helped me find my home. What stands true is that she has done this for me, and I continue to see her do this for other students, new nurses, residents, and other staff members of the NICU Nest. Ester has completely changed the course of my nursing education and prospective nursing career, and I owe a lot to her and nominating her for a DAISY is the absolute least that I can do. Thank you, Ester.