I was admitted into the hospital on Halloween, which happened to be my 3 year marriage anniversary. I was admitted with life threatening conditions, and I was truly scared. I was in the hospital for 9 days. I had many nurses during my stay, but one specific nurse went above and beyond. I could tell by her demeanor, voice, and care in her eyes that she truly loves her job. I requested her every day she was working. She tended to me and constantly checked up on my well-being. I have two children, one 12-year-old and a 17-month-old baby. On one of her shifts, I broke down because I was missing my children and husband. I was scared, and my family couldn't be with me much. Maria saw me, sat beside me, and hugged me; she held me. She picked tangled knots from my hair because I was too weak to do so myself. If any nurse deserves this award, it's Maria. She goes above and beyond, and I have told everyone that she is the one nurse who got me through my stay. Thank you.