My mother has been a patient at Baylor Grapevine many times over the past 3.5 years, and during that time we have encountered many good nurses. But never have we experienced the level of compassion, care, and presence that we did with Kaylee Hode. She stands apart in a way that words almost fail to capture, but it is worth trying because what she brings to her patients and their families is truly exceptional.

Ten days ago, Mom aspirated vomit into her lungs and was rushed down to ICU by an RRT. She was intubated and placed on a ventilator, but during the intubation her heart stopped. CPR and compressions were performed, and miraculously her heartbeat was restored. Those first days in ICU were a rollercoaster of instability and fear. It was one of the darkest, most frightening chapters of our lives. Through all of this, Kaylee was there. She was not just performing her duties as a nurse. She was a steady anchor for both Mom and for our entire family. Her medical skill and professionalism were beyond reproach. She anticipated needs before they arose, responded to every crisis with precision, and never missed a beat through the many ups and downs of those early days.

But what set her apart was something far greater: her compassion. From the moment Kaylee entered Mom’s room, there was a peace that settled over all of us. It wasn’t just the reassurance of a competent professional. It was something deeper. She radiated genuine care; the kind that cannot be taught in nursing school. She carries with her a presence, a joy, and a humility that transformed a terrifying hospital room into a place of safety. She didn’t just care for my mother with extraordinary dedication, but she cared for our family as well. She explained things in a patient and clear manner, always taking time to make sure we understood. She checked on us when we looked worn down, encouraged us when we felt hopeless, and celebrated even the smallest steps forward with us. It felt as if God Himself had sent us an angel at the exact moment our family needed one.

As Mom stabilized in those critical days, Kaylee never wavered. She was there for every setback, every small victory, and every tear our family shed at the bedside. Her compassion was constant and never failed. She went above and beyond in ways that cannot be measured by charts or checklists. She treated our mother as if she were her own, and she treated us as though we were family.

The world needs more humans like Kaylee Hode. She is not only an outstanding nurse. She is an extraordinary woman. We will forever hold her in our hearts with gratitude for the way she cared for Mom and for all of us. There is no doubt in our minds that she embodies the very spirit of the DAISY Award, and we can think of anyone more deserving of this honor.