When I think back to the day I lost my son, C, the pain is beyond words. But even in the middle of that heartbreak, my husband and I were met with something beautiful in the care and compassion of Marquia. Marquia was not just my nurse that day; she was our anchor. Her kindness, attentiveness, and gentle spirit brought comfort in the most unimaginable moments. She checked on us often, making sure we were as ok as we could be, and offering unwavering support with every small act of care. She treated C with such tenderness and respect, honoring him as the precious little life he was. She treated me and my husband with the kind of care that only comes from a deeply compassionate heart. She never rushed us. She allowed space for our grief and even cried with us. She made me feel like more than a patient. She made me feel like a mother, even in my loss, and she made my husband feel seen as a grieving father. Marquia’s presence was gentle, steady, and full of love. She made one of the worst days of our lives a little more bearable simply by being who she is. We are forever grateful that she was the one there with us, and C. Nurses like Marquia do not just do their jobs. They live their calling. She exemplifies everything the DAISY Award stands for and more. We will never forget her. We are forever grateful.