My boyfriend, M, was transferred to the MICU at Covenant Medical Center following a life-threatening asthma exacerbation and aspiration. What led us there was a terrifying chain of events – a traumatic experience that left us shaken and unsure of what would come next. In the initial hospital, M was sedated and paralyzed without a clear justification. His lungs were not responding to manual ventilation, and his oxygen levels plummeted for nearly 30 minutes. We watched him turn completely blue, unsure if he would survive. When he was finally stabilized, the attending physician informed us that he lacked the training to extubate M and that a transfer was our only option.

When we arrived at Covenant, the contrast in care was immediate and indescribable. The staff was knowledgeable, professional, and reassuring – but Ashly stood out above all. She was our second nurse in the MICU and quickly became our anchor in the chaos. Ashly’s approach to care was nothing short of extraordinary. She didn’t just treat M – she cared for all nine of us who were overwhelmed, exhausted, and desperate for answers. She made time for everyone, listening to concerns with patience and empathy. Her ability to communicate, explain, and reassure gave us something we hadn’t felt in days: hope. Even after M regained consciousness, Ashly remained an unwavering source of comfort. She used her therapeutic presence in a way that made him feel safe, seen, and heard. Whether the mood was serious, emotional, or even lighthearted, she met us exactly where we were. Despite the long hours and high demands, Ashly never once showed frustration or impatience. She prioritized safety without ever sacrificing compassion.

In a time when none of us had slept in over 40 hours, she ensured our needs were also acknowledged, not just as visitors, but as human beings going through a traumatic experience. Ashly delivered holistic, human-centered care. She didn’t just check boxes – she set a new standard for what nursing should be. She was timely, compassionate, encouraging, and incredibly intuitive. She made us feel like M wasn’t just another patient – he was someone worth fighting for. Her care has had a profound impact on our lives, and we are deeply grateful. Ashly is more than deserving of a DAISY Award. She embodies everything the award represents and more. I’ll never forget her name, and I’ll never forget what she did for M – and for all of us.