I witnessed DeNeil take well over half an hour (which she didn't have to spare) with a particular patient we shared. The patient had received some discouraging news about his heart health and wanted to leave and was very distressed. DeNeil sat with that patient with her arm around him, offered him hope, an ear to listen and a prayer for healing and encouragement. She cares so much about her patients, and she is what nursing needs to be.

Needless to say, the patient was encouraged; we constructed a solid discharge plan, and the patient returned to his home and work. He even took the time to return to the floor a few weeks later to "check on everyone." I will never forget the effort Miss DeNeil put in that day. She saved a life that day- not with CPR or running a code, but with love and compassion. We can all learn a lesson from her. God Bless you, DeNeil.

Note: This is DeNeil's 3rd DAISY Award!