My husband M battled pancreatic cancer for 2 1/2 years. He received care at the cancer center and was on chemotherapy continuously every other week for over 2 years. During that time, he made relationships with many of the caregivers, who were all so kind and supportive. But there was one very special RN who really touched his heart and who went above and beyond to provide him the care and support he needed. She cared about him as a patient but more than that she cared about him as a person. She knew exactly how to talk to him in a way that he understood. She used humor when it was appropriate, and she always used empathy and compassion.

When it became clear that M's cancer was becoming very aggressive, she talked to him very openly about his options. When M made the very painful decision to stop treatment, Haley organized a visit to our home on a Sunday afternoon in December. She, along with three other RNs and the pharmacist, came to our home to visit with M and say goodbye. That afternoon was one of the most beautiful things I have ever experienced. It truly meant the world to M and helped to give him peace. These are all young people with families and for them to take personal time from their busy schedules is amazing.

She also cared about me and the rest of our family. I would walk over to the cancer center whenever M was scheduled to see the doctor. One time I went and when the appointment was over it was raining outside. I didn't have an umbrella along so Haley used her lunch time, and gave me a ride back to work. It is those small acts of kindness that mean so much in the midst of dealing with cancer and treatments and appointments. Since M has passed, she has reached out to me to see how I'm doing and if I need anything. It is that kind of caring that makes her a true DAISY Nurse.