Through several months, this nurse cared for my grandmother, sometimes as her primary nurse and sometimes stepping in as needed. No matter the schedule, the impact was constant and unforgettable.

From the very beginning, she treated us as more than just patients. She brought laughter into the room, made hard days better with humor, and met our family exactly where it was, whether we were full of smiles or stress and tears.

Even on the toughest days when between grandma and me someone was frustrated or just tired of being unwell, Kristine showed endless patience, kindness, and respect for not just her patient, but also me as a caretaker and my four small children who were scared for their great-grandma.

What stood out the most was the genuine joy she gave my grandmother. Taking the time to talk to us, joke with us, and really make grandma feel seen, heard, and valued, even if grandma’s opinion was just totally wrong. She never rushed care, even when we could hear the other patients being grumpy, never let hard moments turn into lonely ones.

No matter how challenging the day was, she made me feel safe to leave the woman who raised me in her care, not just physically but also emotionally. Over the last year, she became a favorite of our family, and especially my grandmother.

Her compassion, consistency, and warmth made a difficult time so much more bearable. She went above and beyond what was required, and it was clear that caring for people is not just her job, but what she loves to do.

We will always be grateful for the comfort, dignity, and happiness she gave us, and she is more than deserving of this DAISY Award.