I blink my eyes, and I'm suddenly awake. It's dark, I'm alone, my door is closed. I'm connected to wires and drains, I hear unfamiliar beeps and alarms, I'm afraid, I can't move, and the pain is unbearable. I'm exhausted. Panic begins to slowly set in. I fear I could die; I've never been hospitalized before. My pain is a nine; I am terrified. ​ As the fear takes hold of me, a nurse named Jackie enters the room. She's quiet; she detects my fear without me speaking. Her calm, gentle voice begins to soothe me. She explains my situation and reassures me. She grounds me by sharing her knowledge and experience. I begin to feel safe. This nurse has experience; she knows how I feel. Her empathy and caring fill the room. She relieves my pain, she explains the wires and drains, and the numbers on the monitor. She repositioned my tired, stressed body and always communicated what she was going to do and why she was doing it. Her assessment of my abdomen and body is exceptional. This comforts me. I'm okay. I'm safe. She sits beside my bed, holds my hand, and offers to stay with me as long as I need. ​ I am overwhelmed with gratitude, and I will never forget her unwavering commitment to nursing care. This nurse, Jackie Reyes, embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award. Her optimistic attitude resonated with all the nurses caring for me that night. She is a Nightingale. She holds the lamp that represents the essence of nursing. A shining light in the storm. Mayo Clinic is fortunate to have such a nurse representing them.