In addition to many patients frequently expressing their appreciation for Daniell's exceptional and compassionate care, there was a specific patient with whom he made a tremendous difference during his work on the night shift.
The patient was an older woman who was admitted to the geriatric psychiatry unit in an acute psychotic state. In addition, she spoke Russian and was often uncooperative with interpreter services. This patient's behavior posed challenges to the tone of the unit, as she was active during the midnight shift with loud disorganized behaviors that interfered with the sleep of her peers.
This proved to be a challenge that served Daniell's strengths well! His therapeutic toolbox is always stocked with kindness, empathy, reassurance, a listening ear, and cups of chamomile tea. This was a language that our patient understood and Daniell gained her trust. Medications helped with the psychosis but it was Daniell's large doses of caring interventions that helped this patient on her road to recovery. She wrote letters to Daniell expressing her gratitude. She looked forward to greeting him during evening and morning nursing rounds.
The aforementioned patient said, "Daniell is the best." Another stated, "I feel safe and calm in his care. He gives me hope when I'm feeling hopeless."
Staff and patients alike admire Daniell's commitment to care and passionate work ethic. We are all so very proud of Daniell.