My dad spent all but four of his final 40 days of his life on the 5th Floor at Methodist Hospital, battling end-stage gastric cancer. Throughout his life, my dad was always the rock—the strength for others. He was the one who brought smiles, offered a shoulder to cry on, and cared deeply for family and friends. He took pride in being clean-cut, well-dressed, and put together every day. Facing this illness was devastating for him, and as his condition worsened, he felt a deep loss of dignity. This time was filled with sadness, frustration, anger, and grief.

Whenever possible, my dad requested Liz.

Liz was a night nurse who came on around the time my mom would leave for the night. Liz spent time listening to his stories, learning about him and our family, and giving him grace, patience, and dignity. They shared deep conversations, silly jokes, recipes, and laughter. He would offer her his Sweet Martha Cookies from the State Fair. Liz was truly sent by God to ensure my dad had someone who understood his needs. Someone who brought back a sense of normalcy, joy, humor, and peace.

I met Liz the night before my dad passed. He had returned to the 5th floor for hospice and comfort care. When Liz came on shift, another nurse told her which room he was in.  Liz came bounding in, ready to tease him about a recipe. Liz was so caring to all of my Dad and us. My Mom and I spent the night in the hospital. The morning my dad died, I woke up to Liz brushing my dad’s teeth, cleaning him, and combing his hair. It brought tears to my eyes because it showed how deeply Liz knew and cared for my Dad—even in his final hours, without us asking, she gave him dignity.

When I asked about a specialized therapy my dad loved, Liz worried he might not make it in time. She got him on the list and, she coordinated with her ex-husband to bring the therapeutic tool and spent her personal time with us, talking about my dad and sharing memories. It was one of the most beautiful, touching acts I’ve ever witnessed.

Liz went far above and beyond every day to give an ailing patient a sense of normalcy and life, and to give his family peace in his final hours. We are thankful to look back and know that he wasn't alone when we left at night, that Liz was there. There will never be enough words to express how much we appreciate Liz. She was an angel for my dad and for us.

Liz’s care left an imprint on our hearts that will never fade. She gave my dad dignity and gave us comfort—and that is a gift we will cherish forever.

Thank you, Liz. You truly embody what the DAISY Award represents.