I am honored to nominate Anna (so sorry I didn't get her last name) for the DAISY Award in recognition of the incredible care she provided for our family during our daughter’s stay in the NICU. As first-time parents, overwhelmed and navigating the challenges of a C-section recovery and the early days of breastfeeding, Anna was exactly the steady, calming presence we needed.

From the first night we met her, Anna made us feel capable in an environment that initially felt intimidating — teaching me how to change our daughter’s diaper through a maze of wires and monitors with patience and reassurance. Her guidance didn’t just help us in the moment; it built confidence that we carried home with us. I still think about the techniques Anna taught us every time I care for our daughter.

What stood out even more was Anna’s ability to handle a full floor of complex cases with grace, professionalism, and an unwavering sense of calm. Despite the pressure she surely faced, she always made us feel like we were her priority. She brought humanity and heart into an environment that can often feel clinical and overwhelming.

Anna’s impact on our family is lasting, and we are deeply grateful for the role she played in those first critical days. She represents compassion, skill, and the ability to profoundly change the lives of the families she touches.