As a former US Marine, I have seen and experienced things most people will never have an opportunity to, however total hip replacement is a new one. I have visited friends who have been patients at MCR over the past few years. It is upon these visits that I could feel that MCR was different, but I couldn't discern exactly what it was. Now I know. The skill and care of the nurses who cared for me, made it very clear. This is why I feel compelled to ask the DAISY Award selection team members to carefully consider Melody Wallace in the DAISY Award process. Let me share why I feel she is worthy.

Upon being placed in her care I almost immediately felt the "uncertainties" of what would be the next treatment phase disappear. I had but to whisper a need or feeling and her action was immediate. My pain was addressed and explained in tones and language I could understand. Yes, she was doing her job, but what I felt was a genuine concern for my comfort and an attempt to remove my anxiety. Her compassion was evident to me in the simple way I got cleaned up, several times, those first few hours. I never once felt I was just another mess she had to clean up. That type of care and compassion and the way it made me feel, is very difficult to fake. She possess this rare gift. It should also be noted that my wife was treated with the utmost respect while she was with me in the room. Thank you staff!

Going forward, MCR should rest assured that it is in good hands with the staff they have in the Ortho group, Preop and Surgery groups. Hopefully MCR knows that future success will always be based on excellence and compassion of its nursing teams. In closing, please don't allow Melody to play down her role in my ability to say "thank you" to MCR, my surgeon, my nurses and the rest of the Ortho group for making it possible for me to walk normal, again. A grateful patient!