I would like to nominate Nurse Natalia for the DAISY Award for the extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and humanity she showed our family during the birth of our son, M. M was born with anencephaly and was only with us for a few precious hours. From the moment we arrived, we were overwhelmed with fear, grief, and uncertainty about what lay ahead. In the midst of the most heartbreaking experience of our lives, Natalia was a steady and calming presence. She approached every moment with confidence, respect, and deep empathy, helping us feel supported when we felt completely lost. Natalia went far beyond her role as our nurse. She became our caregiver, our advocate, and our emotional support. She gently guided us through each step of the process, always honoring our wishes and treating M with dignity and love. She captured beautiful photographs for us so we would have lasting memories of our time with our son. She cheered us on when we needed strength, and she was a shoulder to cry on when the weight of our grief became too heavy.

One of the most meaningful things Natalia did was ensure that a priest arrived in time to give M his last rites. This act required extra effort on her part, yet she treated it as a priority because she knew how important it was to us. That kindness will stay with us forever. Natalia helped us through the most painful journey a parent can face, and she did so with grace, compassion, and genuine care. Because of her, our time with M—though heartbreakingly short—was filled with love, dignity, and support. She made an unbearable situation a little more bearable, and we will always be grateful to her. Natalia truly embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award, and we cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition