I am nominating Victoria for the DAISY Award because of her exceptional compassion and dedication to patient well-being, as demonstrated by her recent actions with a long-term patient suffering from a severe brain injury. This patient has been in our care for nearly three months, facing a challenging and often isolating recovery process. Victoria recognized the importance of providing him with a positive and enriching experience beyond the confines of the hospital walls.

On a beautiful day, Victoria went above and beyond by taking the initiative to transport this patient outside to the Musso Garden. This simple act demonstrated incredible sensitivity and understanding of the patient's need for fresh air, sunshine, and a change of scenery. She facilitated a truly meaningful experience for him, allowing him to connect with the natural world and experience a moment of normalcy amidst his difficult journey.

Furthermore, Victoria helped him pick a flower in the garden, a small gesture that had a profound impact. It provided him with a tangible reminder of the beauty around him and a sense of agency in his environment. When she asked him, "Feliz?" he responded with a nod and a smile. This positive response, a significant improvement in his usual neurological presentation, highlighted the profound impact of Victoria's thoughtful actions on his mood and overall well-being. This moment provided valuable insight into his cognitive state and emotional responsiveness, exceeding the typical responses we observe in his daily assessments.

Victoria's initiative clearly improved his mood and contributed to a positive healing experience. Her actions exemplify the core values of compassionate nursing care and demonstrate a deep commitment to improving the lives of our patients beyond their immediate medical needs. She recognized an opportunity to enhance his recovery through a simple yet powerful act of kindness, and the positive impact on the patient was undeniable.