I am writing to enthusiastically recognize Virgilia, a dedicated Registered Nurse in the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center at St. Thomas Hospital, West Nashville, for the Ascension St. Thomas DAISY Award. This award recognizes the extraordinary dedication and compassionate care provided by nursing staff, and Virgilia exemplifies these qualities every day.

The entire team at the Cardiac Rehabilitation Center is comprised of excellent professionals who have been a determining factor in my overall successful recovery from open heart/triple bypass surgery. While all the nurses deserve recognition for their exceptional work, Virgilia stands out as a truly caring and inspiring professional who has made a profound difference in the lives of her patients, including myself.

Recovering from a dramatic setback like open-heart surgery is an emotionally and physically painful process. Virgilia has a unique ability to connect with patients during this vulnerable time. She consistently inspired me and others in the program to work hard, push past initial discomfort, and commit fully to our recovery goals. Her caring attitude transforms the challenging work into a manageable and even motivating endeavor. She has not only overseen the technical aspects of my rehabilitation but has also provided the crucial emotional support that validates the human desire for recognition and praise during difficult times.

When my cardiac therapy is complete, I will genuinely miss her and the entire team. It is clear that Virgilia's contribution goes above and beyond the standard duty of care. It is time that she receives the recognition and praise she has earned. Virgilia shows exceptional skill, compassionate heart, and inspiring impact on patients recovering from major cardiac events.