It is very obvious to tell when a nurse loves (or does not love) their job. Terese is one of those nurses who loves her job and takes pride in what she does. Terese is a certified Wound Ostomy and Continence nurse. She sees inpatients within the hospital system. Far too often, we find ourselves caring for patients who, unexpectedly, find themselves needing an ostomy for life-saving purposes.

This type of care does not just require a band-aid and warm wishes. The treatment plan requires hours of education with an overabundance of emotional support due to the sudden change in one's body image. It is an understatement to state that Terese has mastered the assignment. For example, Terese spends countless hours at the patient's bedside, not only finding the "right" device (which often requires calling out to company reps for a lifeline) but sitting and listening to how her patients are coping with this new change to their lives. She makes family involvement a priority and is often found calling out to VNA's to check in and see how her patients are adjusting in their home setting.

Most recently, one of her patients was told he was not able to receive VNA care after discharge. Terese took it upon herself to call out to not only the insurance company but also to several VNAs to help resolve the issue. After exhausting all resources, she created a plan to have the patient follow up with her in our outpatient medical day care setting, and Terese called the patient daily to check in and answer questions.

Terese clearly demonstrates what the DAISY Award symbolizes; the nursing field is lucky to have her caring for patients.