Vicky Cassabaum, RN, BSN, CEN

I'd like to recognize Vicky Cassabaum for the extraordinary care she provided to my daughter during a life-threatening medical emergency.

My daughter struggles with alcohol abuse disorder and had reached a pivotal moment where she was ready to accept help and enter inpatient rehab. After receiving medical clearance at our facility the night prior, we were unfortunately turned away from the rehab facility due to an unexpected after-hours staffing issue. I brought my daughter home with a plan to return to the rehab the next morning.

Early the following morning, my daughter came to me exhibiting signs of alcohol withdrawal. We rushed back to the emergency department, where she was evaluated by the physician, with Vicky as her primary nurse and another nurse assisting. What unfolded over the next several hours was terrifying, and I truly believe this team saved my daughter's life.

My daughter's condition deteriorated rapidly. Her muscles began to lock up, starting in her hands and arms and progressing throughout her entire body, including her face. Her heart rate was dangerously elevated, her blood pressure was critically high, and she was profusely diaphoretic. She was in extreme distress, writhing in pain, and there was no IV access. As a parent—and as someone who understood how critical the situation was—I was in full panic mode.

Despite the chaos and urgency, Vicky remained remarkably calm and focused. With incredible skill and composure, she was able to establish IV access in my daughter's hand on the very first attempt, despite constant movement and difficult conditions. That moment alone felt like a lifeline.

Multiple medications were administered, but my daughter's symptoms continued to worsen. At one point, she looked at me with fear in her eyes and said, "Mom, I don't think I can hold on much longer." It was a moment that broke me. It was at this point that I realized I could really lose her.

The team continued to act swiftly and decisively. Additional interventions were provided to address her cardiac concerns, and ultimately, the physician initiated a specialized medication that required transfer to the ICU. I have never been more grateful for a clinical decision in my life. Slowly, my daughter began to stabilize.

Throughout it all, Vicky never left her side. She provided constant monitoring, reassurance, and advocacy. She also recognized when I was overwhelmed and gently encouraged me to step away briefly so my daughter could rest—demonstrating care not just for her patient, but for me as well. She handled every interaction with compassion and intention, even ensuring that conversations with physicians did not disrupt my daughter when she was finally able to rest.

What stood out most was the way Vicky saw my daughter—not as "just another patient," but as a person. She spoke with her about her journey, her choices, and her future with honesty and compassion. She reminded her, in both words and actions, that she is someone worth saving—a daughter, a sister, an aunt, and a friend.

Vicky's clinical expertise, calm under pressure, and deeply human approach to care made an unforgettable impact during one of the most frightening moments of our lives. Because of her, my daughter has another chance.

For all of these reasons, I am honored to nominate Vicky for a DAISY Award as I sit here looking at my beautiful daughter recovering in the PCU. You've given us another chance, and for that I will be eternally grateful.

I'll also say that everyone has treated us like royalty. So kind and compassionate. A heartfelt thank you to each and every staff member we've encountered.

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This is Vicky's 2nd DAISY Award!