On Wednesday, my family had to make the impossible decision to let my grandfather pass after he suffered an inoperable GI bleed. He was beloved by my family, and although he was 90, we were not ready for this moment. From the time we arrived, Nicole treated my family and grandfather with a tremendous amount of empathy. It is hard to describe how awful and impossible it feels to let a family member go, but she made the decision bearable with the compassion she showed to my grandpa and to each of his family members.

Nicole clearly walked us through the process and took the time to sit with us and answer any questions we had, which is honestly novel in a hospital setting. She cried with us, hugged us, and made us feel like we could make it through this horrible day. I have spent a lot of time in the hospital over the last few years, and there are many great nurses. However, I have never met a nurse that has so clearly found their calling. Nicole exemplifies the kind of compassion and care that the nursing field needs.

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