When I think about the DAISY Award, I think about care, compassion, advocacy, and empathy – foundational words related to the core of being a nurse. As a nurse writing this, I am no stranger to “excellence in nursing,” but I am not too often overly impressed with truly outstanding nursing care. I feel compelled to break from my busy day to share my experience – not only because of the nurse that she is, but because of the person she is.

Words cannot express the compassionate, competent, high-quality care Senita Cuffy showed my family as we were forced with the most gut-wrenching decision we’ve had to make for our mom. Senita’s presence, whether it was lending an ear, advising, or offering a hug, helped us navigate Mom’s transition into hospice. The warmth and love Senita provided us go above and beyond what is expected of a bedside nurse – she has a gift beyond words and something I will cherish having experienced.

Our mom was a vivacious and loving mother; watching her slowly decline over the years was heart-wrenching and something that each of her three daughters (and four grandkids) had to stand by and watch happen. Each of us had to cope with this transition in our own way. My sister, for example, was fortunate enough to be able to be my mom’s 24/7 carer up until the very end. Senita validated that for my sister and took it further to make sure and encourage her to continue to be an integral part of her care plan. Senita’s insight for each of us was a blessing – a gift. (Even writing this, I am smiling as I recall my mom’s last days.) We’re all aware that nurses have heavy workloads and are forever running around the units caring for their patients. Even with all of her other patients, Senita took the time to provide some of the best nursing care I’ve ever witnessed… and that’s with my own 35+ years as an RN! Senita is the epitome of nursing excellence, care, and compassion.