Victoria Huber, BSN, RN, CPAN

I would like to nominate Vicky for the DAISY Award in recognition of the extraordinary care she provided to our mother during one of the most difficult chapters of her life. Our mother has endured a series of devastating medical events over the past 4 months, including AFib, multiple strokes that left her with significant cognitive impairment, delirium, and an inability to understand what is happening to her. On top of this, she is battling stage IV non-small cell lung cancer. She has been in and out of the hospital repeatedly, and this most recent admission—her 4th ER visit in a month for bleeding complications from blood thinners—left her frightened, confused, and exhausted. In the midst of all this, Vicky was a light.

From the moment she entered the room, Vicky treated our mother with dignity, patience, and compassion that went far beyond routine care. She spoke to her gently, explained every step in a way she could understand, and never once showed frustration despite the confusion, fear, and repeated questions that come with delirium and cognitive decline. She made our mother feel safe when nothing in her world made sense. Vicky also cared for our family. She took the time to explain what was happening medically, reassured us when we were overwhelmed, and validated the emotional weight of watching our mother decline. Her calm presence grounded us during moments of fear and uncertainty. She anticipated needs before we voiced them and advocated for our mother's comfort and safety with unwavering dedication.

What makes Vicky extraordinary is not only her clinical skill, but her humanity. She saw our mother not as a diagnosis or a complex case, but as a person deserving of tenderness, respect, and compassion. When our family felt helpless, Vicky gave us comfort and trust. We are deeply grateful for the care she provided. Vicky embodies the very spirit of the DAISY Award—exceptional nursing, delivered with heart. She made a profound difference in our mother's experience and in ours, and we believe she truly deserves this honor.