My wife was in a coma when she arrived at the Bassett Hospital with a weak pulse and totally dependent upon life support. She never regained consciousness and remained on life support for the six days she was in the hospital (without any brain activity) until the time she was taken to surgery as an organ donor. We had no idea what to expect from the time she was moved from the emergency department until she was taken to the ICU. However, the entire staff kept us informed as to what they were doing at all times and what they planned on trying next. We were told from the beginning that her condition was serious and to be prepared for the worst. The entire staff and doctors did everything possible. Through their efforts and the life support procedures, they were able to revive many of her organs and body functions. The nurse always told her what they were going to do, such as move her from one side to another or the need to draw blood. Even though my wife probably couldn't hear them, she was always treated with full respect. They always said her name, told her what they were going to do, and spoke to her as if she could hear them.

There was one individual who stood out from the entire staff. I would like to nominate Saru for the DAISY Award as a way of saying thank you to the nurse who provided my wife with outstanding, compassionate care. Saru had been my wife's nurse for several days, working long, tireless hours trying to make my wife as comfortable as possible and provide my wife with continuous professional care. Besides monitoring my wife from her station, she came in and checked on her frequently. Probably every 15 mins. This included adjusting her blood pressure or temperature and adding various medications through various IVs as directed by the doctors. Saru always explained to us what she was doing and what the lines and numbers meant that we were watching on the monitor and equipment that was keeping her body alive.

In addition to making sure my wife was comfortable, Saru even washed her hair and placed it in beautiful braids. If my wife could have seen how lovely she looked, she would have been so proud of how Saru took the extra time to do her hair. Saru was also concerned about my son and me during our time of grief. She went out of her way to make us comfortable, including providing us with beverages and snacks. Beyond her skills and knowledge, Saru provided my wife and us with exceptional devotion and compassionate care that has left an enormous impression on us. Saru is an outstanding nurse who went beyond the normal call of duty and deserves to be recognized publicly for her compassionate care.