I came into the hospital with COVID and pneumonia. I felt like death was at my door! Alone and afraid and worried about what my outcome would be, I found a friend. Actually, a friend found me. This young new nurse made me feel as if compassion is still a thing. She is that nurse who knows old school nursing of love and compassion for their patients and not just a paycheck. She reminds me so much of the attributes my mom displayed year after year. She made my heart smile every time she would check on me randomly even if it was to make sure I didn’t feel so alone during my uncertainty.

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I always said to her you are my hero. She was always there for me when I needed her.

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Alaiya was my nurse for just one day and I will never forget her. I told her the only thing I wanted before my discharge was to see my wife in the ICU and she made sure I could do that. Even though my discharge was at shift change she did not hesitate to take me to see my wife. I felt very comfortable with her. I had the pleasure of being in the care of Alaiya. She was very caring and always made me feel comfortable. I can tell she is very passionate about what she does. She listened to all my concerns and I never felt rushed. I will never forget her. I contracted COVID and it developed into breathing issues that was scary for me. I’ve been here for 6 days and 3 of them were spent in the hallway of the emergency room. Alaiya was a nurse who made my experience better under these circumstances. She epitomizes what nursing is all about.

Note: Alaiya was also honored with a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nursing Students!