3 Tower is a busy Oncology unit at CMC Main, patient care can be challenging. Nursing students are initially hesitant and somewhat overwhelmed by the acuity level of the patient population. A patient had just been given news that no patient wants to hear, three months left to live. Maya Dove was assigned to the patient after declining the offer to select another patient. Maya's kindness shone through as she cared for the patient who was making her final wishes known to her family. The family was present at the bedside during the entire shift. Maya kept the family updated, addressing each question with poise and professionalism. Despite the challenging circumstances, Maya handled the situation with warmth and empathy, earning praise from the patient. The patient commended Maya for being gentle, attentive, and compassionate, noting that she took the time to listen and explain things in a gentle, caring manner. Maya has showcased her empathy throughout the clinical rotation, offering solace to patients grappling with challenging diagnoses. Her ability to manage the paced environment of the unit while prioritizing individual patient needs sets her apart.

In addition to her responsibilities, Maya actively engages in community service by serving on the board of a student organization here on campus. Her leadership abilities were evident when she organized a group of student professionals from all over campus to volunteer at The Maya Angelou Center Caregivers College. Maya's devotion to her patients and her dedication to community service make her an excellent candidate for this year's DAISY Award. She stands out as a compassionate caregiver and role model for her colleagues due to her caring style and strong leadership skills.