I am writing to nominate an extraordinary nurse who cared for me during a very difficult hospitalization. I boarded in the Emergency Department for 60 hours, and Josie cared for me on the day I felt the sickest and most vulnerable. Her compassion, presence, and skill helped me through one of the hardest days of my life.

From the moment she walked into my room, she was calm and compassionate. She treated me like a person. Despite the busyness of the ED, she never made me feel like a burden. She frequently checked in on me, anticipated my needs, and made several uncomfortable procedures as comfortable as possible through her expertise and her warm bedside manner.

What meant the most to me was the way she advocated for me. She listened to my concerns and made sure my medical team heard them too. She was my voice when I didn’t feel I could effectively speak up for myself, and knowing she was in my corner eased my fear and anxiety tremendously. She was also incredibly kind to my husband, who was constantly at my bedside. Her thoughtfulness toward him showed how deeply she cares not only for patients but also for their families.

Beyond her clinical excellence, she is funny, warm, and genuinely a wonderful person to be around. In an uncomfortable and somewhat dehumanizing situation, she brought me dignity and reassurance. As a Henry Ford physician myself, I hope every one of my patients has a nurse like Josie. I will always remember the comfort she brought me when I needed it most. She truly embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award.