I am nominating Jessica (Jess) Hughes for the DAISY Award on behalf of my sister. My sister was diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer six years ago and passed in January. One of her final requests was her desire to nominate Jess for The DAISY Award.  

This is her story; Jess was the first nurse she met upon her cancer diagnosis, and a bond was formed immediately. My sister trusted and relied on Jess medically and emotionally, as cancer is a whole-body disease. Sometimes medical professionals can become jaded due to the weight of this disease, not Jess, she remained steadfast and supportive offering excellent medical advice and most of all hope, hope that every cancer patient wants and needs. Our younger sister died of cancer 5 years ago.  She had adopted two Russian children, the youngest was plagued with medical problems and learning disabilities. My sister stepped in as a surrogate mother, and she and our brother-in-law continued to raise the children together. She was particularly close to her son, and Jess understood this and took a personal interest in the circumstances and the family dynamics, knowing again to treat the whole body and soul.  My sister's goal was to attend his high school graduation this June. Jess supported her in her goal and did everything within her means medically and emotionally to help her accomplish this goal, never faltering. My sister lived with me for the last 2 1/2 months. We called the center at least 2-3 times per week and always received a prompt call back from Jess, helping her handle the pain, which at this point was excruciating, and again offering hope. She not only supported my sister, but she also supported me and gave me hope, encouraging me and tutoring me in her care, always available and willing to help in any way she could. I have fulfilled my sister's request and ask that Jess be recognized for the extraordinary care she gave my sister. I will be forever grateful.