On a Monday morning in pre-op, Rebecca Massaley cared for a young female patient who had been in an MVC just a few hours prior. The young female's boyfriend had devastatingly passed away in the MVC. The young patient was only 21-years old and lived out of state. She was in a state of emotional distress upon arrival to pre-op and RN Rebecca was able to soothe her with her calm demeanor and whole-hearted compassion. As the patient engaged in various phone calls/facetimes with loved ones Rebecca hugged her, held her hand, and aided her in calming her breathing by placing her hand on the patient's chest and breathing with her. Despite it being a busy day in pre-op and having other patients she needed to care for, Rebecca knew this patient needed her more than ever. The patient was so moved by her soothing disposition and excellent nursing care that when she awoke after surgery she immediately requested that Rebecca be brought to her bedside. Rebecca provided words of encouragement to the patient and her mother and was a strong force of serenity during a difficult time in the patient's life. This patient found comfort and a sense of peace, even though it was for a short amount of time, with Rebecca being present.

We are nominating Rebecca Massaley for making a difference in this patient's stay at Hershey Medical Center by providing her security and assurance in a situation that was very emotionally exhausting and scary. Rebecca was able to build a trusting relationship with this patient and provide her with the emotional support that she needed during this difficult time. We are nominating Rebecca not just because she went above and beyond for this patient, but because this is who she is and this is how she cares for all her patients. Rebecca's knowledge, critical thinking skills, compassion, and empathy for her patients and their care make her a true role model for the nursing profession.

Note: This is Rebecca's 2nd DAISY Award!