Two weeks later, it is still impossible to put into words what Ellen's care meant to my wife and me. To say she is competent is inadequate to describe the dedication, focus, and skill she showed. To call her considerate falls well short of the kindness and empathy with which she cared for my wife. Even now, I tell people that Ellen's care was "incredible," I find the word unable to fully illustrate how central she was to getting through one of the darkest nights of our lives.

My wife came to the ICU following an emergency C-section after a difficult pregnancy. When I met Ellen, I had just returned from the NICU where our first-born was on a ventilator. My wife was not doing well and getting worse. Despite the serious and unpredictable nature of her condition, Ellen never acted rushed, never cut corners, and always made sure to explain to me and more importantly, to my wife - what was happening. When other members of the care team arrived, Ellen was a fearless advocate for my wife. When I had a question, Ellen answered it immediately and made sure I understood. I can say without hesitation that the first night in the ICU would have been unbearable absent Ellen's calm and capable presence.

We were lucky to enjoy Ellen's care throughout my wife's second night in the ICU as well. Although my wife's condition had improved dramatically, Ellen continued to provide skillful and compassionate care, making sure to include my wife's mother as she had included me the night before.

I am convinced Ellen provides superior care to all her patients, and we believe she deserves a DAISY recognizing that consistent excellence. Meeting Ellen was an experience we will always remember, and this award would say all of the things we don't have the words to say. "Thank you" will never be enough.