I know this to be true: The DAISY Awards are for nurses who go above and beyond the normal scope of care, illustrating compassion to each of us as human beings. I'm sure many of the awards will be based upon patients who felt better, felt heard, or had a positive outcome through heroic care from a nurse.

Our outcome might be different...I'm not sure what the future will be for my husband, as the outlook is not optimistic. It is times like these that each of us should celebrate the human connection; the investment of time and sincere care.

Taylor Weiss, a nurse who has been practicing for one year, has shown wisdom beyond her years with the care of my husband. I believe one of the universal truths for a positive existence is to approach each person, no matter race, religion, or socioeconomic background, with dignity and reverence. I have witnessed Taylor fly brightly into a room to do mundane tasks, as if she just received a gift and had been asked to open it. Her spirit is contagious, as she exudes beautiful energy that touches everyone in her presence.

Taylor has made a permanent impact on my life, and while my husband's life may be near its end, it is she who filled my cup. It is she who cared for my husband as she would care for a family member, and it is she who will leave me with peace and hope for this world in which we live. Life is a gift that my dear husband and I have experienced together. She has become a part of our life together. We will never forget Taylor, as she has made such an impact on our lives in such a short time.