I am very proud to nominate Lydia, affectionately known as "Mother Lydia," from Fairmont Station at Villa Rancho Bernardo, for the DAISY Award. Lydia embodies the essence of compassionate nursing, and her dedication is very much known to our patients, her staff, and all of the VRB community.

Lydia's exceptional care extends beyond medical expertise; she treats each patient with kindness, empathy, and warmth. Her hands-on approach ensures that every individual receives personalized attention, addressing their unique needs and concerns. Her gentle touch, reassuring smile, and soothing words calm even the most anxious patients. One particular instance stands out. A patient struggling with pain and discomfort felt overwhelmed and alone. Lydia took extra time to listen, offering words of encouragement and adjusting his care plan to better manage his symptoms. She ensured his family felt supported, keeping them informed and involved. Her compassion and expertise alleviated their distress, replacing fear with hope. Not once but on many occasions, and I have seen it myself whenever I go do my rounds with my admissions at VRB.

What strikes me most about Lydia is her genuine interest in her patients' lives. She remembers their stories, asks about their families, and celebrates their milestones. She has proven in our team group chats that she’s aware of the patient we are talking about, even with just a room number mentioned. She knows her patients by heart. They are just not a MRN but indeed a family. Her love and care transcend the clinical environment, creating a sense of community and belonging to each and every one of us. Lydia inspires us all to emulate her selfless example. She reminds us that nursing is not just a profession but a calling to serve with heart and soul. Thank you, Mother Lydia, for being an extraordinary nurse and an exceptional being. Fairmont Station is not what it is now without you all these years. We love you!