It is with deep respect and admiration that I nominate Marie, a cardiothoracic OR nurse, for the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. Marie embodies the true spirit of nursing, clinical excellence guided by compassion, advocacy, and innovation. Her initiative, "The Pouch Project," is a shining example of how one nurse can identify a way to make care feel more heartfelt — transforming it into a meaningful, thoughtful impact for patients and their families.

Marie noticed that many families arriving at the hospital-often unexpectedly-did so without basic personal care items. Within the cardiac center, their stays were often long and sudden. Whether they came from long distances or emergent circumstances, these families were left without the essentials needed for an overnight stay or even a few hours of comfort. Moved by their vulnerability, Marie took it upon herself to design and implement a solution that would ensure no family felt forgotten or unprepared.

Thus, "The Pouch Project" was born.

Each reusable pouch is filled with thoughtful necessities: toothbrushes, toothpaste, deodorant, combs, tissues, chargers, and comfort items-small things that make a big difference. Marie's goal was simple: offer dignity and comfort in a moment of uncertainty. But her project has grown to become so much more-a symbol of the compassionate, human-centered care that is the heartbeat of nursing.

What makes Marie's work even more impactful is her commitment to sustainability. We previously had been giving patients care items in plastic bags. It felt cold and sterile. By using reusable cloth bags and eco-friendly materials, she's ensured that the project not only supports families but also supports our planet. Now, single-use plastic items have been avoided because of her thoughtful planning, aligning her compassion with environmental stewardship.

Marie's project required collaboration across departments-Patient Experience, Social Work, Supply Chain, and Environmental Services. She presented her vision, organized supply logistics, planned donation drives, and established support from fellow sewing enthusiasts. Her ability to communicate, coordinate, and inspire speaks volumes about her leadership and dedication to the nursing profession.

Marie doesn't seek recognition for her work. She will be the first to say, "It's just what nurses do." But the truth is, not everyone does what Marie does. Her "Pouch Project" is an extraordinary act of nursing, one that reflects the DAISY Award's mission to honor nurses who make a difference through clinical skill and the deep human connection they forge with those they serve. Her project shows us that sometimes nursing isn't just a science; it's an art.

Marie is the nurse you hope for when you enter a hospital, not just for the patient, but for the family who waits, worries, and hopes. For her unwavering commitment to compassionate care, her innovative and sustainable approach, and her clear demonstration of excellence in nursing, I wholeheartedly nominate Marie for the DAISY Award. And with that, I'll end with Marie's slogan through the process, we just want families to know this is "From our Heart to yours".