It is with deep gratitude and admiration that I nominate Brit Mercinko for the DAISY Award in recognition of the extraordinary care, compassion, and humanity she provided to my father-in-law, T, during his stay at Westmoreland Hospital.

T was fortunate to be cared for by many skilled nurses, but Brittany's care stood out in remarkable ways. From the beginning, she formed a genuine connection with him—not just as a patient, but as a person. They bonded over golf, and T loved sharing stories, especially about the times he caddied for Arnold Palmer. Brit truly embraced that bond. She welcomed his advice, sent photos from the golf course to my mother-in-law so they could be shown to T, and always followed up on their conversations. His face would light up with pride every time.

Understanding his love for the outdoors and gardening, Brit went the extra mile to brighten his days. She often showed up just to take him for an extra walk or to try to get him outside. One particularly meaningful moment was when she arranged for T to visit the hospital's healing garden—a beautiful and peaceful space that brought him a much-needed sense of calm and connection to something he loved.

Brit was deeply committed to maintaining T's comfort and dignity. She frequently swabbed his mouth after he lost the ability to eat or drink, and loved to comb his hair to keep him looking and feeling his best.

But her compassion didn't stop with the patient. My mother-in-law, who stayed with T day and night, was treated with the same level of care and kindness. Brit constantly looked out for her—making sure she had a hot cup of coffee, warm blankets, a bed prepared, and emotional support. When T was moved from the Step Down Unit to the ICU, Brit stayed an hour past her shift to ensure a smooth transition, that the incoming nurse was fully briefed, and that my mother-in-law's space was set up before we even arrived in her new room. Then, after going home, Brit returned just an hour later with a hand-assembled care basket filled with snacks, drinks, and a soft blanket—everything to make my mother-in-law's stay more comfortable.

Perhaps one of the most poignant moments occurred when my mother-in-law's birthday coincided with this incredibly difficult time. She never left the hospital, choosing to be by T's side day and night. Brit recognized the emotional weight of that and surprised her with a birthday cake. It was such a simple gesture, but it brought tears to our eyes. In that moment, Brit reminded us all that even in the midst of hardship, kindness and joy can still exist.

Even when she wasn't assigned to T, Brit often appeared—offering help, checking in, and lending support wherever she could. She worked seamlessly with her colleagues and was clearly respected by ICU physicians and the entire care team.

Brit Mercinko provided clinical excellence, but more importantly, she provided heart. She treated T like family, lifting his spirits when he needed it most, and ensured our entire family felt supported and cared for. 

For her extraordinary dedication, compassion, and the countless ways she went above and beyond, I wholeheartedly nominate Brittany Mercinko for the DAISY Award.