I was a patient at the University of Illinois for an emergency surgery and prolonged stay. During that time I received excellent care from many of the staff, nurses, physicians, etc. But one person has stood out the most for me is Sonya from the 6th floor. I appreciated Sonya because from day one after my surgery she was a kind, supportive face, and presence within the hospital. Sonya was my nurse for a majority of my hospital stay. Her presence, smile, calm demeanor, and caring, loving attitude and personality made my stay bearable and sometimes even enjoyable. Sonya went above and beyond the care, a typical nurse is supposed to give treating me like I was her only patient even though the hallway was full of people needing her and her attention, at times. Sonya was always giving frequent check-ins, cleaning up my room and helping me feel normal in a hospital setting. Sonya helped and encouraged me to begin walking and moving out of my bed as soon as I could and celebrated even the littlest of successes with me throughout my stay. She was there to handle the gross and embarrassing situations as well as there as someone to lean on during my long, often lonely stay. Sonya was always was there to listen, encourage, and to care. She truly listened to me and my husband and guests and treated everyone with respect and as welcomed guests of the hospital. She always encouraged me to continue to try to strengthen myself and stay positive even in the midst of the most discouraging times of my stay. Sonya is a wonderful nurse and a loving and compassionate human being. I was so very honored and lucky to have had her as my nurse. I honor Sonya for her tireless efforts, wonderful personality and caring demeanor. She is a wonderful nurse, an amazing caregiver, and should be held up as an example for everyone to see of a truly gifted individual following her calling and passion in life. She is a true DAISY Nurse!