Almost a year ago, I went to Kaiser Fontana’s emergency room for the first time. I waited for hours in pain, unsure if I could hold out any longer. I thought about leaving to go somewhere else, but thank God I stayed; it was worth it. That night, my mom and I met someone we now call our guardian angel. That night was one of the worst days of my life. I was in so much pain that I texted my friends asking for help, but they didn't seem to care. On top of everything else, I realized I had lost my so-called friends. By then, I’d been dealing with chronic pain and sciatica for ten months. I’d tried everything, doctors' appointments, months of pain medications, physical therapy, and nothing worked. I felt hopeless. When I finally got into a room, I was crying and screaming from the pain. A few minutes later, Hunter came in. He told us the doctor would be there soon and explained how busy that night was. I understood I wasn’t dying, even though I felt like I was. cThe wait for the doctor was still long, but Hunter made sure my mom and I were as comfortable as possible. When the doctor ordered medication, I thought it would be another painful shot. Instead, it was an IV drip, my first one ever. I was more surprised than scared because, after all those months, it finally felt like I was getting the care I needed. I’ll never forget that night. I changed my life because of one amazing nurse. Hunter gave me my first IV, and looking back, I wish I had thanked him more.

After that visit, I returned to the Fontana ER many times when the pain became too much to handle. I had about four encounters with Hunter, and every time I was relieved to see him. He was the best nurse I’ve ever met. The last time I saw him was also special. It was the day after my 18th birthday, and I had just gotten an appointment for the surgery I desperately needed. My mom was wheeling me out of the ER while I was on the phone canceling an older appointment. She tapped my shoulder and pointed to the check-in desk. There was Hunter, looking tired but still doing his best. I waved and said, BYE, thank you! You are the best! At that moment, even though I was still in pain, I felt hope for the first time in a long time.

I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and meeting Hunter was no accident. At that moment in my life, I was unsure of my future. I didn't know if I was going to graduate from high school that year. I was 17, about to turn 18, and dealing with challenges I never imagined. Hunter made those hospital visits tolerable. While other 18-year-olds were out doing things like getting their first tattoos, I was signing my surgery forms. It was a challenging situation, but it shaped me into the person I am today. Hunter was a vital part of my healing journey. Thanks to him and other healthcare workers who supported me along the way, I graduated from high school and am now happier than ever. They helped me through the darkest times, and I will always be grateful for their care and compassion. Hunter even inspired me to rethink my future. I applied to college as a neuroscience major, hoping to work in healthcare one day. I want to help people on their worst days and make things just a little better, the way Hunter did for me.

He made such a difference in my life during the hardest times I’ve ever faced. Hunter, if you ever see this, thank you for being my guardian angel. You’ll never know how much you helped me and my family. I hope you know that your job isn't just a job but a lifeline. What you do has the power to bring comfort, hope, and strength to those who need it most. I hope your days are sunny and bright, your phone is always charged, your pillow is always fluffed, and your life is filled with laughter and fulfillment, and I will always wish you the best.

Note: This is Hunter's 2nd DAISY Award!