Denise took over the care of a 24 year old young lady who suffered severe head trauma in a tragic accident. This patient's grandfather sadly had died unexpectedly one week earlier and left behind a close knit family looking of answers.

The Neurosurgeon confirmed early with the staff and family that this patient would not survive and would likely progress to brain death in the next 24 hours. Denise, sensing the family's shock, set up a cot with pillows and blankets in the patient's room for the patient's emotionally exhausted mother to lie down on and stay close to her daughter. She also made sure there was an ample supply of coffee and hot chocolate for family as they spent the first and last night at their daughters bedside.

Denise arranged for additional immediate family members to stay in an adjoining room in the ICU in order to stay as close as possible to support each other through the night.

The following morning Denise made arrangements for the patient's mother to shower during the difficult time the Neurosurgeon performed confirmatory brain death testing.

Denise shouldered this family's pain and shepherded them through one of the darkest moments of their lives, truly exemplifying what it means to be a Memorial nurse.

Denise helped this family turn tragedy into a miracle for another family awaiting the life saving gift of organ donation.

Denise is extraordinary and should absolutely be recognized with the DAISY Award!