I wanted to take a moment to share a truly moving story that unfolded recently in the PICU. After a devastating situation, we had a teenage patient who was going to pass away later that day. The family had promised her a nose piercing with a gold hoop later this summer. As her condition worsened, this simple wish became deeply significant for her and her family. When the parents approached our team with this heartfelt final request, Brittny brought it up during the safety huddle, and the response was overwhelming—offers to help poured in.

Two individuals immediately rose to the occasion: Melissa Moreno and Nicole Caldwell. With true compassion and professionalism, Melissa and Nicole reached out to the family and the patient, explaining the process and ensuring everyone knew what to expect. They not only secured the perfect gold hoop but also coordinated every detail with great sensitivity. In fulfilling this last wish, they provided a moment of joy and comfort amid an incredibly dark time.

The gratitude expressed by the patient’s parents was profound—they shared how much it meant to have a moment of happiness on their hardest day. I am deeply proud to nominate Nicole Caldwell and Melissa Moreno for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award. Their actions are a testament to the values we hold dear and the extraordinary care they provide every day.