I was out of state when my husband was admitted to med/surg unit at GCRMC. During his stay, he took a turn for the worse and was admitted to ICU. Sandra called me and let me know the gravity of his condition. I called ICU later and let them know that even though he is a DNR, I wanted him intubated so I would be able to travel home. In talking with Sandra, I found her to be a champion for my husband and a true advocate. She let the provider know that the family has a choice and that I was POA, since he could not speak for himself. She advocated for my husband. She had barriers with this advocacy, but protected my husband and his family's human and legal rights. She stated to the provider "give the family a chance to say goodbye."
Due to the barriers, it would have been easier for her to neglect this responsibility. She did not.Because of this, my husband was able to see and touch his 3-week-old grandson, his children, grandchildren, and me for the last time. The pure joy on his face will be forever engraved in my heart and mind. We all had the opportunity to say goodbye. This also gave us an opportunity to take him home, his last wish. I will be forever grateful to Sandra for this. She is an example of what being a nurse is and should be. Her true advocacy for my husband and my family models the spirit of the DAISY Award.