From the moment our son was admitted to the NICU, my wife and I felt an overwhelming mix of emotions- fear, anxiety, and the deep helplessness that comes with watching your tiny, vulnerable baby rely on machines and medical care to thrive. But amidst all of that uncertainty, we were incredibly fortunate to have Janelle Pender as Isaac's primary nurse. For the last 10 days, Janelle has been more than just a caregiver; she has been our guide, our teacher, and our steady source of reassurance. She is incredibly experienced, compassionate, and collaborative, treating our son with the same warmth and kindness as if he were her own.

What truly sets Janelle apart is how she involves us in every step of our son's care. She doesn't just do things for him. She teaches us, encourages us, and gives us the confidence to be active participants in his journey. She offers invaluable anticipatory guidance, preparing us for what's next and helping us navigate this unfamiliar and often overwhelming NICU world with a little more ease. Her confidence and calm presence make all the difference. When Janelle is caring for our son, we feel a sense of peace, knowing he is in the best hands. She treats him with such gentleness and love, and that kind of care means everything to parents who can't yet take their baby home. As a husband watching my wife go through the challenges of premature birth and as a father learning how to care for our son in a NICU setting, I can say without hesitation that Janelle provides truly exceptional, family-centered care. She is an absolute gem, and we feel so lucky to have had her by our side. I can't think of anyone more deserving of the DAISY Award.