For six weeks this summer, I was having a mental health crisis. My doctor was trying to find new meds that were going to work for me, and it was a long, hard process. I was crying all the time, and I couldn't will myself to get off the couch. I was desperate to get better. At times when it got really bad, I would call and ask to speak to a nurse. The very first time I called, I was blessed to speak to Amber! She was so kind, caring, compassionate, and respectful. She listened to me and did everything she could to help me feel better. She would ask questions and make suggestions for things that might help me while we were working through the process, without making me feel stupid or crazy. If I had a question and she couldn't answer it, she would let me know that she needed to speak with my doctor, and she would get back to me the same day, and sometimes within an hour. You don't know how much that means to a person in my condition.

Waiting for help and answers was very stressful. And more stress was the last thing I needed. I told her how much her caring and compassion meant to me, and she told me that she was always here for me and to call her anytime I needed something. I had an appointment with my doctor today, and I asked if she was working. I asked if I could speak to her, and they messaged her to come to my room. It was wonderful to meet her in person. She is just as sweet, kind, caring, and genuine as she is on the phone. She took the time to talk to me for a few minutes, and I thanked her profusely for her help and kindness. She asked how I am doing and told me that she was glad that I am doing so much better. She reiterated that I could call her anytime. This woman, in my opinion, went above and beyond her responsibilities to make me feel cared for when I needed it the most. To me, she is a true example of what the DAISY Award is meant to acknowledge.