My uncle suffered a massive and unexpected heart attack. He was transferred to Mass General on a ventilator, and we initially believed it was only needed for the ambulance ride. Tragically, he was never able to be extubated. After ten difficult days in the ICU, as his organs began to fail, we made the heartbreaking decision to withdraw life support. My uncle was only 50 years old, and none of us were prepared for how suddenly and irreversibly everything changed.

On the day my uncle passed, Jenna Curnow was the nurse assigned to his care. I will never forget her extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and emotional presence during the worst moment of our lives. She helped guide our family through an incredibly painful and confusing time with grace and empathy. Jenna offered my uncle’s 13-year-old son, words of comfort and clarity. She helped him understand what was happening in a gentle, age-appropriate way, providing emotional support when he needed it most.

Jenna also took the time to clearly explain to our entire family what to expect once life support was withdrawn. Her thoughtful communication allowed us to make informed decisions about being present with my uncle in his final moments. My grandfather, my uncle’s father, chose to remain at his bedside when the ventilator was removed. Jenna explained every step of the process to him with patience and care, making sure he was comfortable with everything she was doing.

Afterward, the rest of our large family came in to be with my uncle. Jenna kindly allowed all of us to gather around his bedside, giving us the chance to surround him with love and say our goodbyes together. She handled our family with all of us expressing different emotions in our own ways, with remarkable kindness and understanding. Managing a room full of grieving people takes incredible empathy and skill, and Jenna did so with quiet strength and compassion. She also reassured us that my uncle was not in pain and was unaware of what was happening. She vigilantly managed his comfort with dignity and respect, ensuring that he did not suffer during his final moments. That reassurance brought immense peace to all of us.

Jenna's calming presence, her sensitivity, and her unwavering support made an unbearable experience just a little more bearable. She honored my uncle’s life and supported our family with deep humanity. For that, we are eternally grateful. Jenna exemplifies everything the DAISY Award stands for, and she will always hold a special place in our hearts for the care she gave our family in our darkest hour.