Taylor Rinaldi cared for a patient who had a very long stay in the ICU. This patient went through a challenging time, becoming very debilitated. The patient was seemingly depressed and had no desire to push herself and rehabilitate. Taylor recognized this and was determined to help her. The patient was unable to speak due to a new tracheostomy, so Taylor communicated with her with pen and paper and found out her hobbies. Taylor wanted to find something that interested her so that she could inspire her to not give up. Taylor discovered the patient loved music, especially Fleetwood Mac, Queen, and the Grease album. Taylor played their music for her, and her face lit up. She was so happy and dancing in her bed and lipping the words. Taylor would be right in there with her. Taylor did not stop there, she found out that the patient also played music herself and this was something she loved to do. She was a violin player. Taylor was so excited to develop this special connection with the patient, and the patient's entire demeanor changed. She pushed herself each and every day since that point and worked with physical therapy. You could hear the music in her room from morning until night. Taylor made sure to tell her whole team about her patient's love for music and how this is inspiring her and motivating her to get stronger so she can be discharged. Each nurse from then on followed Taylor's lead and helped inspire this patient. Taylor told her manager, and then it was coordinated to have a volunteer violin player come play personally for her. The patient would constantly lip " You can't stop me now!" " I am determined", and she constantly thanked her nursing team and Taylor.

Taylor's compassion, empathy, and determination for her patient changed this patient's life. As an ICU nurse, Taylor is not only focused on the clinical aspect of her patient's care, but the holistic approach. Taylor's focus on this patient's mental well-being, making it personal, creating moments, and building this relationship demonstrated high quality and exceptional care.

Taylor is over-deserving of the DAISY Award and consistently demonstrates nursing excellence every day she shows up to work. I am so proud to work with Taylor and it truly is a pleasure to see every day the amazing care she delivers.