Brittany and Kara recently cared for a PICU patient and their sibling. Tragically, one of the children passed away in the operating room before ever making it to the unit. In the midst of the family’s grief, there was conflict among the healthcare team about whether they would be allowed to see their child after she had passed away.

Recognizing how important this closure was, Brittany and Kara went above and beyond to make sure the family had the opportunity to grieve. They not only spent time caring for their patient, but they also spent hours of their morning contacting multiple hospital team members to coordinate a way for this family to see their child and say goodbye.

Both nurses leaned on their empathy and life experiences to advocate fiercely for the family. They stood by them, ensuring their voices were heard during one of the most devastating moments of their lives. Their compassion and determination made an immeasurable difference for this family, allowing them precious time they might otherwise have lost and giving them the ability to grieve as they needed to.

This moment is a powerful example of why we, as nurses, do what we do. Brittany and Kara exemplify the very best of nursing: advocacy, empathy, and a relentless commitment to their patients and families. They have always been nurses who go above and beyond, and their dedication has been a tremendous asset to our unit for many years. For me personally, witnessing their actions was a reminder my heart needed.

PICU nursing can be emotionally exhausting, and burnout is real. But moments like this — when we see colleagues rise above the heartbreak to create dignity, closure, and love for a family - remind us why we keep showing up, even when it hurts. Brittany and Kara’s compassion, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to their patients and families truly embody the spirit of the DAISY Award.

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This is Britttany's 2nd DAISY Award!