I recently injured my hand which would require outpatient surgery. After 5 days of scheduling, canceling, and scheduling again, for one reason or another, the day finally arrived. As my wife and I got off the elevator to the surgery area, we began to walk down the corridor. There were a couple of nurses standing by the nurses’ station.

Mary came down the corridor to meet us, rather than wait for us to come to her. She introduced herself and then put her hand around my shoulder and said that she knew all about the situation and frustration with the delays we had experienced. She then assured us that things were going to be different beginning now, and they were. We went to the room and she took care of all of the pre-surgery checklists. She made sure my wife was comfortable because she had broken her ankle 3 weeks prior and was in a cast, with crutches.

Mary apologized numerous times for things that she didn’t do or have any control over that created frustration. Mary explained things regarding the surgery to my wife and me in detail. She left no question unanswered, no stone unturned. Mary also showed her sense of humor because I like to joke around a bit and she joined right in. She kept the spirit in the room light yet got everything done in a professional manner.

While I was in surgery, Mary (and others) came to my room numerous times to make sure my wife was comfortable. When I came back to the room from surgery, Mary was there checking on me and asking questions to be sure I was comfortable. She explained to me in detail what I should do post-op and made sure my wife and I completely understood. As we left, Mary was there to say “Goodbye.” Mary turned what had become a frustrating situation into a positive experience. Mary doesn’t just “do her job,” she does it extremely well, but the thing that stands out most of all is that she cares. Her caring, compassion, and concern for others is why Mary is a DAISY Nurse. Thank you, Mary.