I am honored to nominate Nurse Emma Geloff for the DAISY Award in recognition of her exceptional care, compassion, and dedication. My son was diagnosed with metopic craniosynostosis and underwent a bifrontal craniotomy, orbital bar removal, and barrel stave osteotomies- an extensive and life-changing surgery. As a mother, seeing my baby, my first baby, in such a fragile and painful condition was beyond traumatizing.

Throughout this experience, my goal has been to be his voice, advocate for his needs, and ensure I am an active part of his care team. Emma not only supported my son but also provided unwavering emotional support to me when I needed it most.

Emma cared for my son for two consecutive night shifts, and I cannot praise her enough. My son has had many nurses throughout his journey, but he responded best to Emma. Her nursing skills are top-tier, but what truly sets her apart is the warmth and emotional support she brings to both her patients and their families. Emma has a remarkable ability to soothe and comfort, which is invaluable when working with children.

One of the most challenging aspects of his recovery has been administering his oral medications. He strongly dislikes taking them, which makes the process stressful for both of us. However, Emma had a way with him that somehow made it easier, less of a struggle, less anxiety-inducing. Her calm, patient demeanor transformed a dreaded task into something manageable, and that is no small feat.

What stands out most to me about Emma was a moment in the middle of the night when my son was particularly fussy, in pain, and confused. I sat by his bedside, helpless and in tears, watching my baby struggle. In that moment, Emma looked at me and said something I will never forget: "The three of us are in this together. We will figure out a plan to make him more comfortable and to support you, too." Her words and presence brought me so much comfort. She didn't just see my son as her patient; she saw me as another who was breaking inside. That level of empathy and support is what makes Emma extraordinary.

If I could describe Emma in one word, it would be sunshine. Like a sunflower turning toward the light, Emma radiates warmth and brings light into the darkest of nights. Night shift nurses often go unrecognized, despite facing some of the most challenging moments in patient care. Yet, Emma made those difficult nights feel just a little bit lighter.

Another act of kindness that meant the world to me was how Emma helped me with my son's medication. Earlier that day, I had struggled to give it to him, feeling like a complete failure. Later that night, Emma came in with his next dose and didn't just administer it-she took the time to ask me what I found difficult about giving it to him. She listened, offered tips, and most importantly, validated my feelings. She made me feel like I was doing my best, even in the hardest moments.

Emma also went above and beyond in making my son's first Valentine's Day in the hospital feel special. She surprised us by decorating his bed with Valentine's Day decorations that were specifically tailored to his favorite artist. She took the time to make Valentine hearts inspired by Sabrina Carpenter because his favorite song is "Slim Pickins". It was a truly beautiful moment because it showed that Emma truly listens and cares, not just about the medical aspects, but about my son as a little boy with his own likes and personality. Her effort in making a difficult time feel even just a little brighter meant the world to me.

I truly believe Emma deserves recognition for the incredible impact she has on her patients and their families. Her compassion, expertise, and kindness make an immeasurable difference in the recovery process. The world needs more nurses like her, and I hope she receives the recognition she so deeply deserves.

Thank you, Emma, for being a light during one of the hardest times of our lives.