From 7 to 7, Nadya did so much more than provide care. She acted as my advocate - knocking on doors and tracking down doctors for information and updates - and was quick to relay that information to me. She was great company - chatting about life adventures and her path to nursing whenever she had a moment. Her positive and personable attitude renewed some of my trust in an otherwise complex medical system. Perhaps most importantly, as an unusual patient in the cardiology unit, Nadya respected my independence, listening and responding to my needs as a friend would, rather than a caretaker. As a young, healthy patient stuck in the hospital with no answers and no end in sight, having an advocate with eyes and ears in the hallway was invaluable. Nadya knew who and when to ask for updates, and was sympathetic to my frustrations of the slow-moving system. With family far away, the company she provided was a respite. She made me feel like an individual, not just another patient in a busy unit. Nadya granted me autonomy, while always letting me know she was there for support - which I have learned is not to be taken for granted in a hospital setting. Without that autonomy and respect, my mental health would have suffered during my stay. Before her shift ended, Nadya gave me my first taste of girl scout cookies. If that's not DAISY Award-worthy, I'm not sure what is.