Danielle recently modeled her unwavering commitment to creating a space where all belong. She offered emotional support when she stepped in to build trust with a violent autistic patient. He had already physically assaulted multiple members of the team, and security was standing by.  In the heart of this storm where courage could have taken flight, she noticed that the patient had soiled himself, spoke in a calming tone, and lowered herself to his level on the floor (even though she was pregnant) to decrease any sense of a threat.  The patient began to cry and became calm. She put herself last so that others came first.  

If that was not enough already, while rounding today, a patient asked me, “How do I say thanks to my nurse who has made a big difference in my life.” He said this about Danielle:  “THANK YOU so much for all you do for me and for everyone else; it probably seems like it's ignored.  You seem like a fantastic mom.  You will be the number one reason my kids get their father.  You will be a big part of the reason I see my kids again. I’ll never forget that!  Your words really hit me.”

I’ve seen first-hand so many patients whose worlds seem dark suddenly experience a soft whisper of hope and a glimpse of light from Danielle. Her hands heal.  Her words mend. The broken in spirit begin to flourish again.

In summary, Danielle embodies the very essence of what it means to be a DAISY Nurse.  She displays a track record of clinical excellence, interdisciplinary collaboration and empathy for everyone.