I can only imagine how difficult it must be to work as a nurse in the Surgical ICU, where vitals are taken every few minutes, needs are urgent, all patients are critical, and some may not recover. It has to be nearly impossible to see anything but the constant multiple medical needs of these patients, but somehow, Brett saw beyond that in the care of our mother.

When our mother had a stroke and then neurosurgery, she spent three days in the SICU at MCR. Brett was her nurse. He was in every way skilled, professional, and complete in his medical care of my mother, but he provided so much more. Somehow, through all of the tubes and wires and monitors and cleaning, bathing, feeding, and medicating, Brett saw our mother as a person. Even though she was critically ill, Brett got to know who she was and was truly interested in her not just as a patient but as an interesting woman who had 84 years of precious experience and memories. He took time between all his medical care to learn about her life, career, home, interests, likes, dislikes, and quirks. He smiled, joked, and made her laugh. He got her to talk about herself and helped her visualize getting back to the house she loves.

In those three days, Brett got to know my mother not just as a stroke victim but as a mother, grandmother, teacher, gardener, and artist. When my mother was at her most vulnerable, he gave her back her pride by recognizing her not just as a medical patient but as an interesting and valued human being. His honest love for our mother as a person turned what could have been a humiliating experience for this proud woman into an experience that honored her. We are so grateful that Brett cared for our mother. We believe he shows the true compassion and exceptional clinical skill of a DAISY Award recipient. Thank you, Brett and all of the staff at MCR, for the care you gave our mother!

Note: This is Brett's 2nd DAISY Award!