Erica Nielson, RN

Erica deserves the DAISY Award because if there were more people like her working in the healthcare field, then there’d most definitely be more lives being saved. I’m an intravenous drug user, an addict who’s having a hard time overcoming/maintaining the disease of addiction. In the world of the diseased unfortunates, the majority would rather risk the possibility of death than seek medical attention. As a matter of fact, I was advised by others not to go, due to the certainty of me being treated poorly for being an addict. I’ve had an unpleasant experience myself once already, at Bryan East, so I really did hesitate on whether or not a hospital visit would be worth it.

I’m more than grateful that I was attended to by Erica. She gave no judgment; I was spoken to like any other person, and she truly showed nothing but kindness and compassion. She gracefully accepted my input about what I know about my own body, continued with that information in mind, then went ahead to show me that she was able to do the absolute best she could! I felt respected and heard during a moment where I was truly scared and worried for my health. I left St. Elizabeth relieved, educated about my condition, and appreciative of the humanity she had given. I am very thankful for you, Erica. A little bit of kindness really goes a long way. Please continue to make sure nobody ever feels less than themselves or regretful about seeking help.