Mary Antalek
April 2025
Mary
Antalek
,
RN
4 North
Westchester Medical Center
Valhalla
,
NY
United States
Whether it was during my personal care or during difficult conversations, she maintained my dignity with such grace, making me feel respected and seen as a person, not just another patient.
As a nurse, I never imagined I would unexpectedly find myself on the other side of care, as a patient. But during my time in the hospital, I was fortunate enough to be cared for by Mary Atalek, and I feel compelled to nominate her for the DAISY AWARD for the extraordinary care she provided.
I’ve had the privilege of working with Mary before, as she once precepted me during my early days in nursing. Even then, I admired her for her knowledge, professionalism, and the way she truly embodied the heart of nursing. Now, having experienced her care as a patient, I see even more clearly how her compassion and skill go beyond the everyday responsibilities of a nurse.
From the moment she walked into my room, Mary treated me not as a fellow nurse but as a vulnerable patient in need of compassion and care. She was beyond professional; she exuded a warmth and understanding that immediately put me at ease during a difficult and humbling experience. Even though she knew I was a nurse, she never assumed that I was comfortable or familiar with the situation, but instead, she took the time to explain every step of my care with kindness and patience.
What stood out the most about Mary was how deeply she respected my dignity and privacy. Whether it was during my personal care or during difficult conversations, she maintained my dignity with such grace, making me feel respected and seen as a person, not just another patient. Her professionalism was unmatched, and she had an incredible way of making me feel safe and reassured in even the most uncomfortable moments.
Despite her busy schedule, she always took the time to check on me, not just physically but emotionally. She listened with empathy, never rushing, and her genuine concern for my well-being was evident in everything she did. It is rare to encounter such a compassionate, caring, and dedicated nurse, and I am truly grateful for the exceptional care she provided me.
For her unwavering commitment to excellence, her remarkable compassion, and her ability to make even the most vulnerable feel safe and dignified, I wholeheartedly nominate Mary for the DAISY Award. She embodies the very best of our profession.
I’ve had the privilege of working with Mary before, as she once precepted me during my early days in nursing. Even then, I admired her for her knowledge, professionalism, and the way she truly embodied the heart of nursing. Now, having experienced her care as a patient, I see even more clearly how her compassion and skill go beyond the everyday responsibilities of a nurse.
From the moment she walked into my room, Mary treated me not as a fellow nurse but as a vulnerable patient in need of compassion and care. She was beyond professional; she exuded a warmth and understanding that immediately put me at ease during a difficult and humbling experience. Even though she knew I was a nurse, she never assumed that I was comfortable or familiar with the situation, but instead, she took the time to explain every step of my care with kindness and patience.
What stood out the most about Mary was how deeply she respected my dignity and privacy. Whether it was during my personal care or during difficult conversations, she maintained my dignity with such grace, making me feel respected and seen as a person, not just another patient. Her professionalism was unmatched, and she had an incredible way of making me feel safe and reassured in even the most uncomfortable moments.
Despite her busy schedule, she always took the time to check on me, not just physically but emotionally. She listened with empathy, never rushing, and her genuine concern for my well-being was evident in everything she did. It is rare to encounter such a compassionate, caring, and dedicated nurse, and I am truly grateful for the exceptional care she provided me.
For her unwavering commitment to excellence, her remarkable compassion, and her ability to make even the most vulnerable feel safe and dignified, I wholeheartedly nominate Mary for the DAISY Award. She embodies the very best of our profession.