I think to understand the deep level of connection and appreciation I have for Wes Cizeski, you'll require some insight as to who I am as a person. I am a 53-year-old grandmother of two, a mother of 3, a girlfriend, daughter, confidant, addictions counselor, motivational speaker, nanny, and dog walker. I am also a "rare but there" (less than 1-2% of gynecological cancers) sister and was diagnosed with small cell cervical endocrine carcinoma. I faced a radical hysterectomy, chemo, and radiation to its completion. In March I received the news that my CT scan was clear. In one month's time, a brain tumor grew and a tumor metastasized. On my 53 birthday, I entered the ER having suffered for 5 days with a headache. A new MRI showed the tumor and I was immediately prepped for surgery. I awakened dazed and confused (I thought I was in 1989), but I was still me. While waiting for my brain to shrink small enough for the next procedure with a gamma knife, I must take steroids to reduce swelling. Steroids have proven to be a great challenge because they make me easily agitated, sleep-deprived, unagreeable, impatient, paranoid and mean!! I am this "mean mess" of a person who is embarrassed about her heart monitor stickers, bodily smells, and being looked at (let alone judged)...on my fat!...maybe even naked! And worst of all, I am bored! If you come into my room, I'll talk your ear off as I don't understand the changes within me. Wes and I openly discussed the work cell phone and both agreed the constant interruptions were bound to ruin potential dialogues (especially given my fragile, emotional state). We agreed upon a non-verbal, non-invasive hand gesture from Wes when the nurse call light rang. I would be quiet, Wes would talk to the other patient, then (as soon as he could) he would revert all his attention back to me! I wanted him to listen to me while in other's rooms and he wanted to address all the simultaneous demands. I felt valued and now a part of the team. How did Wes do that? Every moment of every day I got to connect with Wes became magical and purpose-filled. I didn't want the day to end. I was an important person again. To be vulnerable is one thing. To stay engaged for 12 hours without falter, or even a slight hint of losing sight of the big picture is a gift. Wes has those gifts. His professionalism and passion surpass all understanding as he interacts with others with purpose and dignity. I am so grateful for all the laughter, attention, and inspiration received by Wes Cizeski! My life is forever changed in a beautiful way because of Wes, he is a true DAISY Nurse!