Nurses connect with patients and families in a variety of ways and the latest DAISY Honoree, Melissa Venable, RN, MPCU, definitely demonstrates that. She was nominated by a peer who described how she “met the patient where he was at.” She helped the patient and the care team work together in a collaborative and patient-centered manner. The nomination included these words: “Her kindness and genuine empathy opened a softer side to this patient’s demeanor.” She earned the patient and family’s trust by taking the time to truly listen to the patient and caring enough to continue to build rapport despite some challenges. She made such an impact on the family that they reached out to her after he peacefully passed at home and invited her to his service. Melissa also helped the staff on MPCU by changing the dynamic between the patient and the staff and helping them see this patient in a different light.