Everyone in the Oncology Unit qualifies as a sweetheart and a savior. I spent a lot of time in the cancer ward up on 7N and got a grasp on just how rough a job it can be. I was there solid from February through April. Then I returned for various lengths of stay from late May through August and September. Everyone on 7N made me feel like family and I can honestly say I had a good time and hated to have to finally leave. 7N is filled with wonderful compassionate people and the whole unit is worthy of your DAISY Award. Pulling me through was a group effort and very much exemplified the phrase "It takes a Village".

The one person who stands out above all others is Victoria Villarreal. She was always happy, friendly, compassionate, and cooperative. I have an issue in that it's very difficult for me to ask for help, unless it's from someone I'm very trusting and comfortable with. I was most comfortable calling her for help, but I tried to make a practice of not calling on her frivolously or abusing her care and kindness.

Not only is she a wonderful person, but she's highly experienced. She was able to take care of all of my medical needs and she knew the equipment and procedures thoroughly. I always knew I was in the best of hands when Victoria was on duty.

Please take care of Victoria and show her the appreciation she deserves. As far as I'm concerned, she's the gold standard by which all nurses should be measured.