We have had the privilege of delivering all four of our children (four under four) at this hospital, and every single time we were blessed with the same nurse: Carrie Pelzel. Having her care for us during four of the most important days of our lives is extraordinary on its own, but what makes it truly special is the kind of person she is.

From the very first time we met her, she showed a level of compassion, attentiveness, and genuine care that is impossible to put into words. She has a gift (not just for nursing) but for connecting with people during vulnerable, emotional, life-changing moments. She cared for my wife with such gentleness and encouragement, and she supported both of us as new parents each and every time, meeting every need before we even realized we had one.

Carrie is the definition of a self-starter and a patient advocate. She anticipates concerns, explains everything clearly, helps calm fears, and notices small details that make a huge difference in the birth experience. She is humble, funny, kind, understanding, professional, and incredibly hard-working. Every interaction we had with her was patient-centered, thoughtful, and filled with compassion.

Four separate deliveries in less than four years, yet she showed the same energy, patience, and wholehearted care every single time, as if it were the very first. She remembered us, celebrated each new baby with us, and treated our children and our family with dignity and warmth. She made us feel safe, heard, and supported, and she turned what could have been stressful days into deeply positive memories. We can confidently say that she has had a profound impact on our family.

She embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for. She is truly an exceptional nurse and an exceptional human being, and we cannot imagine these milestone moments without her.  She deserves to be recognized for the extraordinary, life-changing care she provides.