We had 2 patients with very different stories and histories, but what made a difference was Joy advocating for these patients' quality of life and comfort. One patient had stage 4 pancreatic cancer and also happened to be the only caregiver for his 91-year-old demented wife. They had no other family to help, but he was suffering, and all he wanted was to make sure that his wife was taken care of. Once he knew she was going to be okay, he decided on comfort care, and Joy made sure he was comfortable and made sure he knew his wife was going to be well taken care of. After he passed, she advocated for him and was able to have his wife come up and see him. With tears in her eyes, she was able to give them that last time together.

For another patient who had a stroke and multiple comorbidities, she advocated for his quality of life and comfort as well. He was suffering and declining quickly. He was in pain, and because of his comorbidities and his code status, she could not give him anything to help him feel comfortable. Joy asked that the APRN call the daughter in the middle of the night to explain the situation and have her come see him. With that call, she was able to ensure the daughter would be able to spend time with her dying father but also ensure that he was comfortable in his final hours. This kind of situation could have easily been left for the day shift and attending doctor to take care, but because of the outstanding nurse she is, Joy advocated for her patient's comfort and well-being.

These are just two examples of the everyday effort and care she gives to her patients. In the mundane and the extraordinary, Joy cares for her patients (and coworkers) like no one else. Joy is a true DAISY Nurse.