Kayla Sonnenberg, RN

I would like to nominate this nurse for the extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and clinical excellence she demonstrated while caring for a critically ill infant whose condition ultimately resulted in death.

I personally witnessed her go above and beyond during this incredibly difficult situation. Throughout the resuscitation and treatment, she remained calm, focused, and attentive, even as the infant showed signs of increasing distress. She recognized subtle changes in the baby's condition, communicated concerns clearly, and maintained a steady presence that supported both the care team and the family during a high-stress, emotionally charged event.

What stood out most was the exceptional emotional care she provided to the infant's mother. During a time no mother should ever have to endure, she met the mother's emotional needs with compassion, patience, and dignity. She offered comfort, reassurance, and presence -- not rushing the moment, not turning away from grief, but standing with the mother through unimaginable loss. Her ability to provide human connection amid tragedy was profoundly moving.

After the event, her care did not end. She continued to support the healthcare team by checking in with involved staff members, recognizing the emotional toll the situation had taken. She made a point to follow up, offer support, and ensure her colleagues felt seen and cared for during a difficult time. While many forms of nursing excellence are visible in moments of joy and celebration, nursing is also defined by the ability to provide skillful, compassionate care when the outcome is heartbreaking. I witnessed this nurse embody the very heart of nursing during one of the most difficult situations imaginable -- supporting a grieving mother through the loss of her child, guiding and steadying the care team, and continuing to care for others long after the room was quiet. This level of presence, courage, and compassion reflects the deepest and most meaningful work of nursing and deserves to be seen, honored, and recognized with a DAISY Award.