I am writing to nominate Gabriella for the DAISY Award because of the exceptional care, compassion, and professionalism they demonstrated during my care and recent stay at Dominican Hospital. This was my second time here within the last two months. And I have been fortunate to have Gabby twice! Blessed, I would say. I have had a rough life, and from the moment she entered the room, upon meeting her, I felt seen, heard, and truly cared for – not just as a patient, but as a person. During my first stay, Gabby took the time to explain every medication and procedure, and always made sure I understood what was happening. Even in moments of high stress, she remained calm, reassuring, and fully present.

One moment that stands out for me was when she was clearly busy but still knew I needed some self-care. She washed my hair, brushed it, and braided it. It may have seemed like a small act, but to me, it meant the world. She sat with me as long as she could as I went through the emotions of my new diagnosis. She held my hand and reached out to my family when I couldn’t. From the very beginning, Gabby made me feel comfortable, respected, and truly cared for. On my second stay, what stood out the most was how patient she was – not just with me, but with my entire family. Whether it was answering our many questions, calming our fears, or explaining procedures multiple times without ever showing frustration, Gabby treated us with consistent kindness and calm.

One specific moment I’ll never forget was when I was feeling overwhelmed and struggling to manage my pain. Gabby sat with me, talked me through my options, and never rushed me, even though I knew how busy she was. That kind of patience is rare and made such a difference. In addition to being extremely intelligent, she is the most compassionate individual I have met in this unit. As I met many nurses, none truly touched their presence and personality. I am truly grateful for her and was very proud to have her as my nurse. I felt like she truly knew me, anticipated my needs, and guided me on my long stay. What makes Gabby extraordinary is not just their clinical knowledge and skill, but the genuine warmth, patience, and humanity they bring to their care. She went out of her way to advocate for me, to comfort my family, and to ensure that we never felt alone. Nurses like Gabby remind us that healing is about more than medicine – it’s also about compassion. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of the DAISY Award.