Douglas Rae
June 2025
Douglas
Rae
,
RN
Medical Intensive Care Unit
St Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center
Phoenix
,
AZ
United States
His compassion made an unbearable moment feel a little more human and a little less alone.
Nurse Doug demonstrated exceptional compassion, care, and support during one of the most difficult times in our lives. My mother was critically ill and admitted to the ICU. She was on mechanical ventilation and life support, and we knew we were approaching the end of her journey.
As a nurse, I understand the clinical demands and emotional challenges of caring for patients and their families in such vulnerable moments. That’s why I was deeply moved by the way Nurse Doug went above and beyond, not only in providing excellent care for my mother, but also in offering unwavering support to us as a family.
One moment I will never forget was when my mom’s condition began to decline rapidly. Nurse Doug gently guided us through what to expect and stayed by our side, not even taking his lunch, offering comfort and never rushing anything. He made sure my mom looked peaceful and even brought extra chairs for my dad and me so we could sit close to her. He encouraged us to hold her hand and talk to her, reminding us that she could still hear us. That moment of connection, made possible by his thoughtfulness, meant the world to us.
Throughout this time, Nurse Doug stood by our side, not just as a nurse but also as a comforting, steady presence. He treated my mother with such tenderness and dignity, even when she was sedated. He made sure we understood what was happening every step of the way, answering our questions with patience and compassion, always keeping us informed and emotionally supported. He made sure we were comfortable in the room, offered gentle words, and was present in a way that made us feel truly cared for. He didn’t just care for my mom; he cared for us. He created a peaceful environment and stayed close, making sure we were never alone unless we wanted to be. His quiet support spoke volumes.
Even after my mom passed away, Nurse Doug continued to show such grace and empathy. He guided us through every step with humanity and kindness, and we will never forget how he made a heartbreaking moment just a little more bearable. His compassion made an unbearable moment feel a little more human and a little less alone.
Nurse Doug exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate caregiver. We are forever grateful for his kindness and professionalism. As a fellow nurse, I recognize and admire the heart it takes to care like that. Nurse Doug embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for, and we will always be grateful for what he gave us.
As a nurse, I understand the clinical demands and emotional challenges of caring for patients and their families in such vulnerable moments. That’s why I was deeply moved by the way Nurse Doug went above and beyond, not only in providing excellent care for my mother, but also in offering unwavering support to us as a family.
One moment I will never forget was when my mom’s condition began to decline rapidly. Nurse Doug gently guided us through what to expect and stayed by our side, not even taking his lunch, offering comfort and never rushing anything. He made sure my mom looked peaceful and even brought extra chairs for my dad and me so we could sit close to her. He encouraged us to hold her hand and talk to her, reminding us that she could still hear us. That moment of connection, made possible by his thoughtfulness, meant the world to us.
Throughout this time, Nurse Doug stood by our side, not just as a nurse but also as a comforting, steady presence. He treated my mother with such tenderness and dignity, even when she was sedated. He made sure we understood what was happening every step of the way, answering our questions with patience and compassion, always keeping us informed and emotionally supported. He made sure we were comfortable in the room, offered gentle words, and was present in a way that made us feel truly cared for. He didn’t just care for my mom; he cared for us. He created a peaceful environment and stayed close, making sure we were never alone unless we wanted to be. His quiet support spoke volumes.
Even after my mom passed away, Nurse Doug continued to show such grace and empathy. He guided us through every step with humanity and kindness, and we will never forget how he made a heartbreaking moment just a little more bearable. His compassion made an unbearable moment feel a little more human and a little less alone.
Nurse Doug exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate caregiver. We are forever grateful for his kindness and professionalism. As a fellow nurse, I recognize and admire the heart it takes to care like that. Nurse Doug embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for, and we will always be grateful for what he gave us.