My mother was in the ICU, and while she was in critical care and in a coma-like state, Monica was the one nurse who always took the time explain what was happening, and always took the time to answer my million questions with a sense of understanding that I was not in the medical field, so she explained it in a way where I could understand. She took great care of my mother and me.

One morning a doctor came in to make his rounds and explained that my mother needs to come off her ventilator and it may go one way or another; obviously this was a tough conversation and once the doctor left the room, Monica sat me down and explained some things in such a kindly and delicate way and explained more about what the nurses do daily to keep her going. I will forever be appreciative of that conversation, as it prepared me for her passing a few weeks later.

A day later, we had a meeting with a social worker to discuss the "what if," and it was extremely difficult. I was very emotional and buried my face in my hands while I cried. I felt arms wrap around me and assumed it was family. It felt like forever when I finally stopped my wailing, and I looked up, and it was Monica. I'll never forget that hug, ever. In fact, when my mom passed a few days later, and she was on the 15th floor, I desperately wanted a hug from Monica and even asked if she happened to be working that night. Unfortunately, she was not... I will never forget Monica, and I would love to thank her by nominating her for a DAISY Award.