A few days ago, my friend M was in a traumatic car accident. In the blink of an eye, we went from carefree twenty-somethings to almost losing her. A reality none of us were ready to face. Thankfully, M is still with us, but she is facing the most immense pain and challenges of her life as she begins the long road to recovery. After days of not-so-great experiences with other care providers, we met Olivia this morning. In just those twelve hours, she transformed not only M's experience but also the energy in her room, the outlook of everyone who visited, and even our belief in ourselves as caregivers. Olivia was more than a nurse today she is a light in one of the darkest moments of our lives.

Every time M called, Olivia came quickly and with kindness. She never made us feel like a nuisance, no matter how many questions we asked or how much assistance M needed. She was attentive to M's pain and emotional state, making her feel seen and cared for during an incredibly vulnerable time. What stood out most was how Olivia cared for all of us, not just M. As M's friends and future caregivers, we are scared and overwhelmed. But Olivia took the time to explain everything about M's care and how to help her manage pain, support her mobility, and prepare for the challenges ahead. She reassured us that, while the road ahead would be long, we were capable of walking it with M. (No pun intended) Every single person who visited M today left wishing Olivia could be her nurse every shift, and we were surprised to learn that she had many more patients to tend to today. She set the standard for what compassionate, extraordinary nursing looks like.

Olivia reminded us just how much a nurse shapes not only the patient's experience but also the hope and strength of the people who love them. I wanted to express my gratitude for Olivia immediately, while her impact was fresh in my heart, because I will never forget what she gave us today. She gave M comfort, dignity, and care when she needed it most and she gave the rest of us the tools and confidence to keep fighting for her recovery. She is a true DAISY Nurse and an absolute gift to her patients and their families!