I would like to nominate Kim, a nurse who went above and beyond during my care at Wood County Hospital.

From the moment I arrived until the time I left, Kim was friendly, professional, and exceptionally attentive. I was scheduled to undergo a septoplasty and turbinoplasty with Dr. Shariff and was understandably very nervous about the procedure and what the day would entail. Kim immediately put me at ease. She carefully and thoroughly explained what I could expect, what she would do at each step of my care, and what would happen next. Her calm, confident approach made a tremendous difference in helping me feel prepared and supported.

During my visit, I asked Kim to deliver my discharge instructions to my mother, who was my ride home. At the same time, I requested that my medical history remain private and only be discussed with medical staff. Kim was thoughtful and proactive in handling this request, drawing on her understanding of the surgical process to ensure my privacy preferences were respected while still ensuring my mother received the information she needed.

I had also mentioned that if there were any difficulty starting my IV, I would prefer the anesthesiologist attempt it. Kim handled this with complete professionalism and kindness. She did not take the request personally and was very supportive of the anesthesiologist’s assistance, even helping gather supplies and a flush when needed. Throughout the entire process, she maintained a positive, collaborative attitude and made me feel comfortable and respected.

Where Kim truly went above and beyond, however, was involving my mother. My mom is 78 years old and a retired nurse herself. She experiences both good and bad pain days, and unfortunately, the day of my procedure happened to be a particularly difficult one for her. We had trouble finding a parking space and ultimately had to park well beyond the helipad. Because I was anxious and focused on making it to my appointment, I did not think to drop her off at the entrance before parking. The walk into the hospital ended up being very difficult for her.

When Kim later brought my mother to my pre-op room, she noticed how much pain and unsteadiness my mom was experiencing. I asked if the hospital might have a valet service to retrieve her car while I was in surgery, but Kim explained that this was unfortunately not available. After seeing my mother’s condition, Kim thoughtfully asked if it would be all right for her to escort my mom to the car in a wheelchair. My mom gratefully accepted.

Kim personally wheeled my mother all the way out to her vehicle, then ran back into the hospital to resume her duties. This was something she absolutely did not have to do, and I sincerely hope it does not cause her any trouble, because it meant the world to both of us. By caring for my mother in that moment, she also relieved a tremendous amount of anxiety for me following my surgery.

Kim’s compassion, initiative, and dedication to patient-centered care set the tone for my entire hospital experience. She cared not only for me as her patient but also for my family. Her actions demonstrated that putting patients first is truly second nature to her.

I genuinely did not anticipate such extraordinary care, and I cannot commend Kim enough for her thoughtful and holistic approach to making sure I felt safe, comfortable, and supported in every aspect of my visit.

For these reasons, I respectfully hope you will consider Kim for the DAISY Award. She is more than deserving of this recognition.