Nicole Wisniewski, RN

Nikki is a pediatric oncology nurse whose compassion and presence during end-of-life care exemplify the very heart of nursing. When she came on shift, a beloved long-term oncology patient had died just thirty minutes earlier. The family was still present, overwhelmed by grief and facing unimaginable decisions. Nikki immediately stepped in and gently took responsibility for guiding the family through what came next. Partnering closely with the Pediatric Oncologist, who had established a deep and trusting relationship with the family. Nikki followed the physician’s lead to ensure care remained aligned with the family’s wishes and emotional needs. Together, they provided seamless, unified support, giving the family consistency, trust, and compassion during an incredibly fragile time. With calm confidence and deep sensitivity, Nikki expertly navigated the many logistics that follow a patient’s death, ensuring every step honored what mattered most to the family. She thoughtfully coordinated memory-making activities, including handprints, and a Lavender Ceremony with the family and a small group of staff creating a quiet, meaningful space to honor the child’s life.

Throughout the process, Nikki explained each step with patience and compassion, never rushing and always checking in to ensure the family felt supported and heard. When it came time for the family to leave the hospital, the patient’s mother struggled with the unbearable reality of leaving her child behind. Nikki gently promised the mother that she would stay with her child and personally accompany her to the morgue so she would not be alone. After the family and friends left and the unit settled, staff later looked for Nikki to ensure she was taking care of herself. Instead, they found her sitting quietly at the bedside, exactly where she had promised to be. Although the patient had been placed in the mortuary bag, Nikki chose not to zip it closed while she waited. She sat beside the child, maintaining presence and dignity until the transporter arrived. This quiet, intentional act reflected profound respect, humanity, and an unwavering commitment to honoring both the patient and the trust the family placed in her. Nikki’s actions went far beyond clinical responsibility. She comforted a grieving family and upheld the dignity of a child whose life mattered deeply to everyone who cared for her. Her compassion, integrity, and collaborative practice exemplify the very qualities the DAISY Award was created to recognize.