During my 15 days as an inpatient, I received the finest, most professional care from all of the nursing staff that was part of the team taking care of me. With that said, there is one instance that stands out and that I will forever remember.

While waiting in my room to be discharged, my oncologist came in to inform me that one of my test results showed up positive and that I have bone cancer, leaving me stunned and reeling mentally. As I sat there somewhat numb, my nurse quietly entered and sat with me, gently touching my arm and softly speaking to me. I don't remember every word she spoke, but I do remember the feeling of calm that her caring words gave me. That memory gives me the strength and resolve, along with my family support, to keep positive and strong on the road ahead. That is why I want to nominate Mary Kay Vaitkevicious for the DAISY Award.