I am honored to nominate Kelsey for the DAISY Award in recognition of the extraordinary compassion and care she provided to me during the most heartbreaking time of my life. I was admitted to Baptist Health Floyd after learning that my baby had no heartbeat. Facing the unimaginable pain of delivering a stillborn son, I was overwhelmed with grief, fear, and sadness.

Amidst that darkness, Kelsey stood out as a light of empathy, strength, and kindness. From the moment she entered my room, Kelsey treated me not just as a patient, but as a grieving mother. She held space for my pain—never rushing me, never avoiding the hard moments. She explained every step with patience and made sure I felt supported and understood, even when I was emotionally paralyzed. What made Kelsey truly exceptional was the compassion she brought to each moment. She sat with me when I cried. She held my hand when I needed strength. She honored my son’s life with tenderness and respect, and she created keepsakes that I will cherish for the rest of my life—his footprints, a memory box, and the gift of being seen and cared for in my sorrow. Her kindness, empathy, and grace not only helped me survive that day—they changed my life.

Kelsey inspired me to become a nurse. I wanted to give to others what she gave to me: comfort, presence, and care in their most vulnerable moments. Today, I’m proud to say I’m six months away from graduating from nursing school, and I carry her example with me every single day. Kelsey didn’t just care for my physical and emotional needs—she planted a seed of purpose in me that continues to grow. Because of her, I found my calling. She is everything a nurse should be, and I will be forever grateful for the impact she had on my life.