I am honored to nominate Sam Mullen for the DAISY Award in recognition of the truly exceptional care, compassion, and humanity she brought to my father-in-law, T, during his stay at Westmoreland Hospital.

From the outset, Sam demonstrated a level of dedication and heart that went far beyond what anyone could have expected. She encouraged T to get out of bed more often than required, gently pushing him to stay active and engaged. As his condition became more complex, Sam's care only deepened. She showed up for T and for our family in every way possible.

One of the most impactful examples of her devotion was the effort she made to get T outside for some fresh air, especially after he was placed on a ventilator. This was no simple task-it required coordination with several people and departments. Sam obtained permission from the doctor, arranged for another nurse to assist her, coordinated with the respiratory therapy team to safely manage her ventilator outside, and ensured her other patients were covered while she stepped away. She did all of this not because she had to, but because she knew how much it would mean to him. These outside moments became small lifelines-offering peace, comfort, and emotional relief.

On harder days, when T felt discouraged or depressed, Sam worked tirelessly to lift his spirits. She often talked with him about his garden and shared pictures of her own, creating a personal bond that brought him joy. She also took great care in preserving his sense of dignity—shaving his face, combing his hair, and always making sure he looked and felt like himself.

When it became clear that T would no longer be able to speak due to the tracheotomy, we brought in a small whiteboard and marker to help him communicate. However, he struggled, which led to frustration and isolation. Sam noticed this and took the initiative to find a communication device that allowed him to point to words or needs—something that made communication easier and helped him feel less alone and more in control. It was a small but meaningful change that made a big difference.

Her compassion didn't stop with the patient. My mother-in-law often stayed overnight by T's side, and Sam consistently went out of her way to make sure she was comfortable—preparing a bed, offering warm blankets, and treating her with genuine care and compassion. Sam supported all of us, emotionally and practically, through some of our most difficult days.

Even when T was not officially assigned to her, Sam would appear when someone called for help or when she simply knew she was needed. She was a steady and reassuring presence, always communicating clearly with other nurses and demonstrating a deep commitment to teamwork. It was clear she was highly respected by her peers and the physicians in the ICU.

Sam also paid close attention to T's comfort after his tracheotomy—frequently swabbing his mouth to keep it clean and moist, and even giving him the small treat of a soda-flavored swab, which brought him so much happiness when he could no longer eat or drink.

While T received wonderful care from many nurses, Sam's care was simply extraordinary. She saw T as a whole person and treated him—and our entire family—with dignity, respect, and heartfelt kindness. 

Sam Mullen is everything the DAISY Award represents. Her dedication, compassion, and ability to connect on a deeply human level make her more than deserving of this honor. Our family is forever grateful for what she gave to T and to all of us.