We have been coming to Riley North for several years, every 2 weeks with one child and every 4 weeks with another. Cindy is the heartbeat of this unit.

Recently, we had an infusion, and for the first time, we had never seen either nurse on the floor. They were respectful and professional. However, 2 weeks later, we found out my daughter got the wrong infusion from these ladies. For the 2 weeks after the infusion, my daughter’s headaches/ migraines were back so bad that she was not functioning. Nothing would touch them. After reaching out to her medical team, we braced for, we didn’t want to hear there was nothing more, and this was simply the progression of the disease we had been bracing for. This took a huge toll on her at 13. She kept saying she hoped she had a few more years. She became defeated.

Fast forward 2 weeks, and Ms. Cindy, knowing my daughter so well, asked when her orders changed. She was thrown off. I quickly responded that they didn’t change and asked what she meant. The orders in the chart were not her normal orders. I was able to call her team and get the orders fixed, and at the same time, I asked Cindy to let me know what she had gotten 2 weeks prior. Sure enough, they were the wrong orders.

This catch that Cindy made gave a sweet 13-year-old hope back. She immediately knew that her hydration could have been playing a role in her migraines. Her medical team quickly confirmed and was hopeful that getting the right orders in could get her back on track with migraine control, along with other things.

This is only one example of how important it is to have consistency in your nursing staff. This problem could have gone on for weeks. It could have been caught earlier had a nurse even confirmed her orders with us. We trusted them. We have never had a med issue at North because of Ms. Cindy’s dedication to her patients. I can’t think of someone who deserves a DAISY more than someone who has given a child back hope for their quality of life.

This is one of many times Ms. Cindy has gone above and beyond. My daughter used to have severe anxiety with new nurses. Ms. Cindy always comes in and checks and lets her know if it’s someone knew and they will be great if Cindy is unavailable for access. Cindy learns about her patients' families and what their needs are. No one wants to be here 26 days a year; however, Cindy makes sure it’s the best experience every time. In the 3-4 years we have been here, Cindy continues to care every time. She does not grow complacent. Her job is not mundane to her. Every child is important on every visit.

This is Cindy's 2nd DAISY Award!