My son, who was born with anencephaly, passed away in the NICU. His twin brother was born healthy, and both were in the NICU. From the start, Emma cared for them that night. Emma did something that I will always hold close to my heart; she held my son during his last moments and placed him next to his twin brother.

The moment the boys were together, they both became calmer, and my son passed away peacefully with his brother beside him. It was such a deeply human and loving act that gave me comfort in the middle of unimaginable pain. She didn’t just provide clinical care; she provided emotional safety. She kept me informed about everything as it happened, and she never rushed me. She gave my mother and me the space we needed to grieve. She helped me get footprints and dressed him with such tenderness and respect as though he were her own family.

Emma spoke to me with words that soothed my heart at a time when I didn’t think comfort was possible. Her presence was a bright light in one of the darkest days of my life. The way she handled everything not only honored my son. but also allowed me to process my grief in a healthy way. I will never forget Emma’s kindness, her gentle voice, and the love she poured into her care that day. She made sure my son was okay, loved, and comforted before his passing. She will forever be a part of our family’s story, and I truly believe she embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award.