My husband was admitted with a subarachnoid hemorrhage to Overlook Medical Center. Following his surgery, he was admitted to the Neuro ICU where he spent 17 days. The entire nursing team in the ICU that worked with us were amazing, but I would like to specifically nominate Heather Martell for The DAISY Award.  Heather connected with my husband in a way that he trusted what she was saying and explaining, and she could get through to him in a way that he understood what was going on and what was in his best interest.  As scared as I was in this situation, she explained things to me in a very "matter of fact" way that made me feel comfortable that she wasn't trying to "fluff" what we were going through and that this course of his healing process was one they expected him to take, and they were prepared for.  She would patiently answer the numerous questions, and thoroughly explain it to ensure I understood.  I never saw her get frustrated or concerned with the way his progress was proceeding.  Even when he attempted to get to the bathroom on his own, she just shook her head and asked him, "What do you think you are doing?" 

Heather had a student nurse working with her at times and would explain how best to treat the patient using my husband as the example and letting the student understand what was going on, and working with Heather to make the best decision on how to manage his pain, his fever, etc.  They will be fantastic nurses in Neuro ICU with a teacher like Heather! 

When she would come back on shift, she would request to continue to work with C because she knew his personality, what he needed and how best to communicate with him to get us both through the biggest challenge of our marriage.   

Her patience, dedication, and humor are truly what got us through this experience, and I am not sure I would have managed so well without her care. 

Truly - every nurse that we came into contact with there was amazing, thoughtful, patient and caring.