I would like to recognize Michelle Jones for the extraordinary compassion, generosity, and leadership she brings to the Bear Valley Emergency Department every single day.

Michelle has been a nurse in our department for many years and is lovingly known as the “mama bear” of the ED. She cares deeply not only for her patients, but also for every member of our staff. Her presence brings comfort, wisdom, and kindness to even the most difficult shifts. One moment that perfectly captures Michelle’s heart occurred last summer with a patient who frequently visits our ED due to psychiatric challenges.

During one visit, the patient mentioned that she wished she had a teddy bear to cuddle. Michelle quietly went out and bought herself one so she would have something to comfort her. A few days later, the same patient returned and suddenly ran out through the ambulance doors into the dirt lot behind the ED. Michelle immediately went after her. The patient was unable to walk on the rocks and gravel in the lot, and without hesitation, Michelle removed her brand-new shoes and placed them on the patient’s feet so she could safely walk back into the department where she could be cared for and protected.

This moment reflects who Michelle is at her core. She gives of herself freely and always puts the needs of others first. Beyond patient care, Michelle is constantly supporting our team—bringing food for the staff, counseling coworkers one-on-one during difficult times, and sharing the immense knowledge she has gained through years of experience.

Michelle is truly a bright light in our Emergency Department. The love and compassion she shows to everyone around her is unlike anything I have ever seen. Nurses look up to her, physicians respect her, and patients feel genuinely cared for in her presence. She is a beautiful nurse inside and out and truly embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award.