My husband was admitted for surgery, and unfortunately he experienced a complication that required him to return to the operating room for a second procedure later the same day. It was a very stressful and emotional time for both of us.

After his second surgery, the PACU nurse, Eucharia, aka Ukuy, took care of him, and her presence made an enormous difference in our experience. She was calm, reassuring, and had such a positive outlook that immediately helped reduce our anxiety. She confidently reassured us that the complications for the day were behind us and that recovery could now begin.

Ukuy also encouraged early ambulation and explained how important it is for recovery after surgery. She mentioned that her patients usually walk from the hallway gurney to their hospital bed and explained how early movement improves surgical outcomes. With her encouragement and confidence, my husband -after lying flat on his back for 21 hours and undergoing two surgeries in one day- proudly walked from his gurney to his bed on the medical-surgical floor. Her positivity, encouragement, and belief in his ability gave him the strength and confidence to do something that felt almost impossible at that moment. It also brought tremendous comfort to me as a family member during a very difficult day.

We are deeply grateful for Ukuy compassion, professionalism, and encouragement. She truly made a difference in our recovery experience, and we believe she exemplifies the kind of extraordinary nursing care that the DAISY Award is meant to represent.