Today’s nomination story was submitted by the daughter of a former patient: “My mother was brought to the ICU after surgery for a perforated bowel. Seeing my mother intubated and unresponsive was the most helpless I've ever felt in my life. Melissa's compassion, professionalism, and overall talent for nursing are the main reasons I was able to hold myself together. My confidence in her ability to care for my mother is what gave me the strength to walk through the hospital doors each day. She was there every step of the way when my mother was at her most vulnerable. She updated me frequently and made sure I always had the full picture of what was happening. She answered all of my questions with so much kindness, and in a way that I could understand. I never felt like a burden when we spoke. She gave me the same laser-focused attention she gave the Physicians when they discussed my mother's case. I was in awe of her ability to take in information and execute quickly and skillfully. Melissa treated my mother and my family with dignity and compassion. Melissa is an exceptional nurse and more than deserving of a DAISY Award.”

Today, we celebrate an exceptional nurse, Melissa Marlow, whose impact is truly lasting. Once a dedicated nurse in the Emergency Department and now an indispensable presence in the ICU, Melissa transforms challenging moments into beacons of hope. When one family faced the daunting reality of an ICU admission after a critical surgery, Melissa provided a steady, reassuring presence. Her calm expertise and genuine care turned overwhelming uncertainty into a trusted support system during their most vulnerable hours.

Across both the ED and the ICU, Melissa consistently provided families with clear updates, answered every query with patient kindness, and ensured that every patient and their loved ones felt respected and genuinely cared for.

Melissa, you embody the spirit of a DAISY nurse. Congratulations. Thank you for your outstanding, life-changing care.