Al has cared for my son during two different hospital stays, and each time he has left a truly lasting and positive impression on our family. During both admissions, his scavenger hunt around the unit gave my son the motivation he needed to get up and move after surgery. What could have been a painful, discouraging process instead became something fun and engaging. The joy and distraction this brought him made an enormous difference in his recovery. Honestly, every pediatric unit across the nation should take 9QB’s example and use this strategy to help get kids up and moving.

Al was always cheerful, calm, and endlessly patient with my son, even on the days when he was not at his best. He has a gift for making families feel both comfortable and empowered. Two moments from this most recent stay stand out above the rest. Al made my son a pair of “walking shorts,” complete with the letters for his high school written on them. They were just disposable shorts, but my son wore them proudly as he walked his laps, and he even brought them home with him.

The other moment was when Al used my son’s family nickname. It may seem small, but hearing him call my son by the name only loved ones use made us feel like we were being cared for by family, not just staff.

Al, you made us laugh, you encouraged my son, and your excellent care directly contributed to his recovery. You are doing God’s work, and it shows in everything you do.

This is Al's 4th DAISY Award!