Andrea was my father’s first nurse when he was moved from Neuro ICU. As a family, we were fearful it was too soon and that he wasn’t ready for Rehab. But Andrea’s smile, quiet confidence, and gentle explanations reassured us. We went home confident he was in good hands. We couldn’t have been more right! As the days turned to weeks, Andrea was our rock, the consistent, energetic, and knowledgeable professional anyone would be grateful for at a time like this.

To say my father was a challenge would be an understatement! He had been healthy, active, and independent his entire 86 years, yet he was facing recovery from a traumatic brain injury and two craniotomies. It was frightening and difficult for him (and us) and he often acted out those fears and frustrations upon Andrea. He resisted, argued, complained, and literally howled and cried often. All these behaviors were ones we’d never seen in him and frankly they frustrated us and tried our patience. But Andrea, rather than take offence, or become annoyed, always saw the man we knew. She appreciated his humor, his intelligence, and his stories. She smiled through his tantrums, magically motivated him and managed his care with the quiet confidence of cheerful warrior. She treated him like her own beloved grandfather, with love, patience, and an appreciation always for his humanity.

Andrea has been a true God send to us. She is a true DAISY Nurse! She is the finest Memorial Hermann has to offer!!!!