When I was admitted to Lakeland Regional, I came in unconscious and heavily drugged. I had no idea where I was, what was happening, or what the days ahead would hold. But once I began to regain awareness, one nurse stood out for her extraordinary compassion, care, and dedication—Maria. From the beginning, Maria went above and beyond—not just in tending to my medical needs, but in treating me like a whole person. She explained everything to me patiently and clearly, making sure I felt safe and informed in an otherwise overwhelming situation. One moment I’ll never forget was when a critical MRI slot opened up unexpectedly after days of waiting, but there was no hospital transport available. Instead of letting that opportunity pass, Maria personally rushed me down herself—something completely outside her usual responsibilities. She didn’t wait or make excuses; she acted. That small but powerful decision made a huge difference in my care, and it showed the kind of nurse she is: proactive, selfless, and deeply compassionate. After several days of being unable to eat, I was finally allowed to have a meal. Maria immediately put in a rush order for me so I wouldn’t have to wait any longer than I already had. It may seem like a small thing, but after everything I’d been through, it meant the world to have someone notice and act on that moment of comfort and normalcy. What touched me the most, though, was how she connected with me as a person. She took the time to ask about how I felt emotionally (not just medically) and about my children and my family—and she even remembered their names on the following days. That kind of presence and attention reminded me that I wasn’t just a patient—I was someone she genuinely cared about. Maria brought dignity, kindness, and warmth into a very difficult experience, and I can honestly say she made a lasting impact on my recovery. She is everything the DAISY Award represents, and more. I will forever be grateful for her care.