From the first day, Cade let me know he'd be taking care of me. However, he did more than that. I was admitted to the floor later in his shift. So there were only a few hours before he had to leave. I don't remember a lot that night because I was pretty sick. But the next morning, when he was helping me to the restroom, he noticed I didn't have anything on my feet, so he put hospital socks on them. Mind you, I'd gone to the restroom overnight at least twice during the night.

Every time I accidentally moved my arm, the IV pole alarm would go off. He would be in my room in an instant, every time. I felt terrible, but he would tell me not to worry; that's what he was there for. He talked to me while he was drawing my blood, giving me medicine, changing my IVs, taking my temperature, or just checking to make sure I was all right. Cade was so gentle and patient. I know that's what nurses are supposed to be like, but this was different, and he was different.

I retired from the military 6 years ago. I was a medical administrator, and I was deployed as a medical support commander responsible for pharmacy, laboratory, radiology, logistics, medical administration, and medical readiness. I worked very closely with the nursing staff. So, I have an idea of how Medical units and their nursing staff are supposed to care for their patients. Cade is a very skilled nurse who showed compassion when taking care of me and dealing with my family, who were concerned about my health and being sick and alone. Cade not only put their minds at ease, but he put my mind at ease as well, so I never felt alone.

I was very impressed with his professionalism and attention to detail when it came to my care. When I left, I told Cade he was the best nurse ever. I meant it then, and I still mean it. No one took care of me the way he did. I wholeheartedly nominate Cade for The DAISY Award for demonstrating excellence, expertise, and leadership in the field of nursing. Thank you, Cade!