As a former LPN stepping into a new role as an RN and transitioning into a new department, I've had so much to learn about this new field. But there are moments in your career that stay with you forever. Thursday is one I'll never forget.

That day, our L&D/NICU team was called to the ER for an emergency delivery of twins. When we arrived, we quickly realized the situation was unlike anything we expected. Two 29-week-old babies had already been delivered and were being resuscitated by ER staff. The room was filled with people, everyone doing what they could to help give these babies a fighting chance. Brooke, the only NICU staff member who had come with us at that moment, without any hesitation, moved through the room with confidence and urgency to make direct contact with the babies. I was in awe, not just because she knew this was her job and those were her patients, but she remained calm, clear-headed, and focused in a room full of chaos, standing alongside ER physicians and the charge nurse, offering guidance and voicing what was needed until the NICU nurse practitioner could arrive.

Even after help arrived, Brooke never stepped back. She stayed involved, advocating for both babies, responding quickly, and calling out critical needs as they arose. Her calm under pressure, clinical expertise, and unwavering dedication were inspiring to witness. It was obvious that this wasn't just a job for her; it was her calling. Brooke's compassion, leadership, and grace under pressure embody everything the DAISY Award represents. In that moment, she didn't just do her job; she defined what it means to be a nurse. Her presence that day left a lasting impact on me.