I had surgery at the Northwest Main OR today. When I woke up from anesthesia, I was in a lot of pain, and I struggled to clearly express what I needed and what hurt. My PACU nurse, Haylen, was incredibly intuitive — she noticed subtle changes in my facial expressions and body language and responded immediately, often before I had to say anything at all.

She asked what had worked for me in the past and truly partnered with me in my care, including trying non-pharmacological pain interventions. Because of her skill, attentiveness, and dedication, my pain was completely controlled, and I was able to leave the surgery center with zero pain.

Just as meaningful as her clinical care was who she was as a person. Haylen was kind, calm, and genuinely pleasant to be with. I never felt rushed, dismissed, or like just another patient. As a fellow healthcare worker, I know how rare it is to encounter a nurse with this level of compassion, intuition, and presence.

Nurses do not receive enough recognition for truly caring for people, and it is important to me that Haylen, her leadership, and our community know just how extraordinary she is. She truly embodies the heart of nursing and is deeply deserving of this DAISY Award.