Emily went above and beyond in her care and management of a patient with ALS who was in the ICU for over a month. ALS made this patient a paraplegic for over 20 years and blinking was his only way of communicating. Not only did Emily take care of this man, but she also spent time taking care of the emotional needs of his wife who was his full-time caregiver. His wife dedicates her life to taking care of her husband who is homebound. Having this gentleman in the hospital offered his wife a bit of a respite and an opportunity to actually have some free time on her own - even to enjoy a simple cup of coffee. His wife would not have left him alone in the hospital unless she trusted the care and attention that Emily and the rest of the ICU staff at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital provided to her husband.
Emily even remembered her special patient during her PTO and vacation! Emily brought him a sombrero as a souvenir from her trip to Mexico which he proudly wore during his time on the unit and when he was discharged from the hospital. She made his stay so special that both the patient and his wife were sobbing when it was time to leave the unit - saying it was the most wonderful time they have had in a long time. His discharge was a very moving experience for all the staff.
Emily Daniecki made such a lasting impression of compassion to this couple and we are honored to recognize her as DAISY Award Recipient at Inova Fair Oaks Hospital.