I want to recognize Riza, RN, who cared for me on one of the hardest days of my life. At 50 years old, I found myself facing the unimaginable: a heart attack. As a nurse myself, I've been on the other side of the bed many times, but nothing prepares you for becoming the patient.
After my stent placement, I experienced significant post-op bleeding at the femoral puncture site. Despite multiple attempts to control the bleeding, my condition worsened, and my blood pressure suddenly dropped from the 150s to the 50s. In that moment of crisis, Riza became my champion. She didn't hesitate. She skillfully gathered the team, knew exactly what needed to happen, and stayed calm in the middle of my storm.
But it wasn't just her clinical expertise that made the difference; it was her unwavering compassion. As I drifted in and out of consciousness, the only voice I could hear was hers, firmly and gently encouraging me to stay awake. She positioned my husband at the head of the bed to help keep me calm, understanding how important his presence was in that moment. She anchored me when everything else felt like chaos.

Riza stayed past her shift long after she could have handed off my care because she promised she wouldn't leave me until I was stable. Even when the rapid response team arrived, even when I was headed to the ICU, she stayed. She hugged me before leaving and told me she would pray for me. That level of compassion, that commitment to the human side of nursing, is rare and beautiful.
As a nurse, I know how easy it can be to emotionally disconnect, especially after a long shift. But Riza stayed connected. She gave me not just excellent care, but also kindness and hope when I needed it most.
Riza embodies everything the DAISY Award represents. I will never forget her.  Thank you, Riza, for all you do for our patients, families, and team members!