Although I was only on the Neurology Unit for 6 days, Marguerite's healing powers impacted my entire 24-day stay at PVH. Words alone cannot express how much Marguerite's compassionate care positively impacted me during this difficult stay. I was paralyzed at the time, yet Marguerite's kind words kept me encouraged that things would get better. She always entered my room with a compassionate smile and left me with a caring pat regardless of if she was providing cares or was just coming in to check on me. However, it was Marguerite's special "winks" that made all the difference on a tough day. Marguerite quickly learned that watching the sunrise and sunset each day was extremely important to me. Aids would carefully position me so I could peek through a hole in the bedrail to watch the sun's magic. But Marguerite, she came in one morning providing her own magic by rearranging my room! Now I had the entire window, without any obstruction to view the glorious colors in the sky and changing leaves!! This was absolutely amazing for someone to take it upon themselves to find a way to provide me with moments of joy while staying safe.

Marguerite did not stop there. On my bath day, Marguerite gently massaged my feet while the aids provided a bath. Now, this may not seem like anything at all, but let me tell you, this was extraordinarily special. Again, I was paralyzed and unable to reach out to others for human touch. The only time I was touched was when I was repositioned or given a caring pat by Marguerite. I think even my family was afraid to touch me so I was starved for human contact. Not only did Marguerite's acts of kindness provide me with that much-needed contact, but her massage therapy background knew exactly how to massage my feet so that I was able to relax for the first time while being in the hospital.

As you can see Marguerite was my DAISY, my Extraordinary Nurse that made all things better for me. Unfortunately, I was whisked to the ICU one night when she was off duty. I did not return to the Neurology Unit. I was sent to the PCU and then Acute Rehab. All this time I wanted to let Marguerite know her magic in rearranging my room, the extraordinary foot massage, her encouraging words, caring pats, compassionate smiles, and most of all her special winks will never be forgotten. Her healing powers truly gave me the hope and encouragement I needed to get back home. Hugs to you Marguerite!

Note: This is Marguerite's 3rd DAISY Award!