As a critical care nurse, I see patients at some of their most vulnerable moments. But amidst the chaos, I also witness incredible acts of compassion from nurses who go beyond their duties to make a true difference. Russell Sabal RN from 5th floor is one of those nurses. During a rapid response call, I cared for a patient who, despite her lethargy and declining condition, kept using what little energy she had to praise one person Russell. Over and over, she told me how kind, compassionate, and truly special he was. Even in her weakest moments, she wanted the world to know how much he had meant to her. She even had a special name for him "my pineapple." I'm not entirely sure where the nickname came from, but to her, it meant warmth, comfort, and safety. And that's exactly what Russell gave her. She insisted on writing something about him herself, weakly reaching for a pen, determined to put her gratitude into words. I promised her that once she was stable, I would help her. But life had other plans, and she never got the chance. Now, I am writing this for her because she wanted people to know how wonderful Russell truly is. Because the way he cared for her made her feel safe, valued, and heard. In a world where nurses are often stretched thin, he never made her feel like just another patient. He made her feel like she mattered. Russell, this nomination is not just from me, it's from her. And I hope this recognition serves as a small reminder of the difference you made in her life, just as she wished for you to know. You were her pineapple.

Note: This is Russells's 2nd DAISY Award!