I was hospitalized (overnight) for lumbar spinal surgery. While every nurse I encountered at the hospital was great with their care, "Brooke" was truly outstanding in every area described as PETALS traits in the DAISY Award brochure.

She displayed an outgoing, bubbly personality along with confidence in her patient care skills. Her willingness to actually engage and listen to the patient's concerns, in my case about prescription meds that were scheduled for pain relief, movement, and the walking routine around the hospital - all within the surgeon's orders and hospital care guidelines; made my post-op recovery much more "comfortable". My wife commented as well on the high level of trust we both felt (initial impression and throughout her shift) from her professionalism and the confidence she displayed.

She routinely checked on me, interacted with and addressed any concerns, and even after the end of her shift stopped on her way out to check and say, "Goodbye". While no one looks forward to being hospitalized for any reason, she truly made my stay as comfortable as it could be and conveyed that sense of hope and encouragement that every patient needs. I say this being a 69-year-old retired police officer that was undergoing his 11th major surgery in the past 20 years to address significant duty-related injuries.