One week ago, there is a day I will never forget: my husband, L, was rushed into emergency surgery and then to the TSICU floor. It was one of the most frightening and overwhelming moments of mine and our family's lives. The TSICU can be an intimidating place for patients and families, and we were trying to process everything that had happened so suddenly.

My husband arrived late that Tuesday night fully sedated and on a ventilator, Matthew was the first nurse L met the following morning. From the moment Matthew introduced himself, he brought a sense of calm into an incredibly scary situation. One of the most difficult moments came when L woke up and had to face the reality that he now had a tracheostomy and learn that his heart had stopped and that CPR had been performed to save his life. This was an incredibly emotional and overwhelming realization for him. Matthew handled that moment with such compassion and care. He helped L understand what had happened, reassured him, and made sure he did not feel alone while processing such a traumatic experience.

On Wednesday morning, Matthew called me with an update. After everything that had happened the night before, seeing the hospital calling was terrifying and my heart immediately dropped. Before anything else, Matthew eased my mind by telling me right away that L was stable and that this was a good phone call, not a bad one. That simple act of compassion meant more than he probably realizes. He then calmly updated me on L's condition and told me that L was awake. He answered my questions and reassured me that L was doing well and that I did not need to rush in and that it was okay to breathe.

Matthew went above and beyond for both L and myself. He answered every question we had without ever making us feel like we were a bother or asking too much. If he did not know an answer he took the time to find out or page a doctor so we could get the information we needed. He also made sure that I was taking care of myself, encouraging me to rest and reassuring me that L was in good hands. Because of Matthew. I felt comfortable stepping away and trying to sleep, knowing that L was being cared for by someone who truly cared about him.

Those first few days in the ICU, especially Wednesday and Thursday, were incredibly hard for us and I honestly do not know how I would have gotten through them without Matthew's calm presence, guidance, and compassion. Matthew represents everything that makes nurses extraordinary. His ability to combine clinical skill with genuine kindness made a lasting difference during one of the hardest weeks our family has ever faced. Because of him L felt safe, informed, and cared for in a moment when everything felt overwhelming.

We will never forget the comfort, strength, and kindness Matthew showed our family. For these reasons I am honored to nominate Matthew Lundberg for the DAISY Award.