At just 22 years old, I was admitted for my first serious medical issue—a first rib resection surgery with a healing drain. I was scared, overwhelmed, and didn’t know what to expect. That’s when Abby came into my life during my SICU stay, and she made all the difference.

Abby cared for me during the night shifts, which could have easily felt long, lonely, and intimidating. But instead, her kindness, patience, and compassion made those nights so much more manageable. She took the time to explain what was happening, answered every question with patience, and never once made me feel like a burden.

She had this amazing way of keeping things light-hearted when I needed it most. She cracked jokes, shared laughter, and created moments of joy when I was anxious or in pain. That kind of emotional support was something I hadn’t expected, but needed deeply.

Abby didn’t just take care of me, she took care of my family, too. She made my husband and loved ones feel included, respected, and at ease, which brought all of us a sense of comfort in an unfamiliar and intimidating situation.

Her attentiveness and empathy were evident in every interaction. I always felt like I was in the most capable and caring hands. Abby is exactly what nursing should be. A perfect balance of skill, heart, and humanity. I will never forget the way she made me feel during one of the most vulnerable times of my life.

She is truly deserving of the DAISY Award.

PS: Her “Certified Silly Goose Pin” always made me smile when she was checking my vitals and giving me my needed medications.