In June of 2024, my mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, which was a moment that brought fear, uncertainty, and many overwhelming decisions for my mother. From our very first visit, Katie stood out as a soft-spoken, kind, and incredibly compassionate nurse. She treated my mother not just as a patient, but as a person with patience and dignity.

My mother would often get confused during appointments, and I made Katie aware of this early on. Without hesitation, Katie took extra time explaining things clearly, double-checked comprehension, and always made sure my mother felt included and informed.

After my mom’s surgery, we returned for a follow-up visit, and Katie mentioned that she had been watching to make sure my mother completed all of her scheduled appointments. That small comment may seem minor to some, but to me, it meant everything-it showed that Katie wasn’t just doing her job; she was actively invested in my mother’s well-being.

During treatment, I couldn’t attend every appointment, but on the days I could be there, I always noticed how Katie conducted herself. My mother was a talker and would often get long-winded, easily getting off track. Many professionals might have cut her short, but Katie never did. She gently and respectfully redirected the conversation when needed, while still making my mom feel heard and valued.

In December, things took a turn. My mother developed an infection that led to multiple hospital admissions and the eventual decline in her health. I reached out to the office, feeling overwhelmed and looking for guidance. Katie was the one who returned my call, and over the phone, I could hear the same compassion and clarity in her voice that we had come to know in person. She walked me through the next steps. When we ultimately made the painful decision to enter hospice care, I called to inform the office, and I ended up breaking down while speaking to Katie. Her response was calm, comforting, and genuinely empathetic. Katie showed more compassion and understanding than even some members of the hospice team. Her tone brought peace during a deeply difficult time.

Katie has a servant’s heart and a true calling as a nurse. I will forever be grateful that she was part of my mother’s care team. I only wish she could have been there at the very end, because she possesses a rare and special gift when it comes to caring for the sick.

Katie is everything the DAISY Award stands for—clinical excellence, compassionate care, and a genuine connection to patients and their families. She made a lasting impact on both my mother’s journey and mine, and I can think of no one more deserving of this recognition.