Jean is the very definition of what it means to be a nurse: strong, compassionate, driven, and fiercely protective of her patients. Her combination of clinical expertise, heart, and relentless advocacy makes her an irreplaceable asset to our team and an unforgettable presence in her patients' lives. Jean is not only highly skilled but also incredibly determined when it comes to her patients' well-being. She goes above and beyond in every sense of the word, never settling for good enough when it comes to their care. She is not afraid to raise concerns or push back when necessary, even if that means challenging a physician to ensure that her patients get what they truly need. Her strength and confidence make her a powerful advocate, someone you absolutely want in your corner during a difficult time.

One night in particular stands out as a shining example of Jean’s dedication and heart. Near the middle of her shift, one of her patients became anxious and emotional; her son, who visited regularly, hadn't shown up to see her all day. The patient told Jean she had a mother's intuition that something was wrong. Many might have offered reassurance and moved on, but Jean took her seriously. She personally called around to several local police departments to request a wellness check. It was well past midnight, and Jean refused to let the concern go unanswered. Her determination brought comfort and validation to a worried mother who needed someone to listen.

That same night, Jean also had another patient whose daughter was admitted to our ICU with a poor prognosis. The patient had been asking for updates on his daughter for several days, but no one had taken the time to confirm whether he was authorized to receive this information. Jean made it her mission to change that. She reached out to the ICU team, navigated the necessary steps, and finally got her patient the update he had been desperate for. Her ability to see people as whole beings, patients with families, fears, and needs beyond the medical is what makes her so extraordinary.

These moments aren't exceptions for Jean; they're who she is. She treats her patients like family, advocates for them fiercely, and shows up again and again with empathy, professionalism, and grit. She's the nurse who will fight for what's right, whether it's challenging a doctor or making the calls no one else thought to make. Her strength, heart, and unwavering commitment to her patients are the essence of what the DAISY Award represents. Jean is more than deserving of this recognition. She is the kind of nurse who changes lives.