Nicole Thoreson, BSN, RN

When I went into labor with my son, I was surprised by how alone, vulnerable, and scared I felt. I didn't have much of a birth plan. My plan was simply to trust the medical professionals around me, ask questions, and make informed decisions as the moment required. But when the reality of labor set in, I became overwhelmed and worried that I had made a huge mistake.

Fortunately, Nicole was my Labor and Delivery nurse, and I could not have been in better hands.

From the very beginning, Nicole was kind, comforting, encouraging, and professional. I could spend all day finding words to describe the incredible nurse she is. Her knowledge and confidence immediately put me at ease. Every question I asked was met with a thoughtful, clear explanation, and I always felt equipped with the information I needed to make decisions about my care. She instilled confidence in me, trusted me, and encouraged me to trust my own body.

Nicole made sure I was as comfortable as possible throughout my labor. She also took the time to build meaningful connections with the family members who came to support us, making everyone feel welcomed and included during such an important day.

When her shift ended, she didn't simply hand off my care and leave. She stayed late to help with my delivery and to continue caring for both my son and me after he was born. That alone speaks volumes about her dedication.

One moment I will never forget was the first time she helped me to the bathroom after delivery. While our mothers were holding and admiring our new baby, Nicole quietly cleaned my blood from the floor. She did so with such grace and compassion that I never once felt embarrassed, ashamed, or judged during one of the most vulnerable moments of my life. Instead, I felt cared for with dignity and respect.

When Nicole returned for her next shift, she continued to go above and beyond. She gave our baby his very first bath, helped me complete paperwork, assisted me in resolving a legal question, patiently stayed with us while we decided on our baby's name so we could be discharged, and even walked our family to the car when it was finally time to go home.

I know there were countless other things Nicole did behind the scenes that I will never fully realize or be able to put into words.

The exceptional care she provided will stay with me for the rest of my life. Because of Nicole, I felt safe, supported, and empowered during one of the most significant moments I will ever experience. Her compassion has not only shaped my memories of my son's birth, but it has also changed the way I approach empathy and caring for others in my own life.

Nicole exemplifies everything the DAISY Award represents. She is an extraordinary nurse whose kindness, professionalism, and unwavering dedication made an immeasurable difference to my family, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.