My father is the hardest working man I've ever met in my life, and for my dad to be in the ICU under such conditions was beyond anything we have had to deal with. Yet from the moment Akeya walked into the room to begin taking care of my dad, the atmosphere changed to a peaceful environment where she made the family feel more than comfortable and asked multiple times if we had any questions. Regardless of how many times we asked for updates, she politely told us any further news and results from tests that he had. She made sure my dad was aware that his family was there and loved him very much. Any time Akeya would even walk over to the bed where he was laying, she would tell him everything was okay and was nothing short of comforting and encouraging. Any response she had to any of our questions or comments, she responded in compassion. It is sleepless and fear-filled nights like last night that make nurses like Akeya angels in disguise. There needs to be more Akeyas in the world. I was sad when her shift ended, knowing we wouldn't have her as our nurse for the rest of our visit. I am hopeful that Akeya's passion and caring heart manifest throughout the rest of this hospital.
Note: This is Akeya's 2nd DAISY Award!