I want to nominate Elizabeth Venegas because her approach to care leaves a profound mark on patients and their families. More than just performing procedures or completing tasks, Eli offers dignity, support, and humanity in moments of extreme vulnerability.

I especially remember Mr. E, a large patient with very limited mobility, hospitalized for multiple complications, including a Clostridium difficile infection that caused frequent bowel movements. His condition made him constantly dependent on others for his hygiene and comfort, a situation that caused him enormous shame and anguish. He often needed the assistance of several people, which made him feel uncomfortable, exposed, and deeply vulnerable.

As the days passed, Mr. E began to specifically request that Eli be the one to care for him. In the midst of a period marked by pain, dependence, and fear, she achieved something invaluable: she made him feel safe, respected, and supported. She always took the time to close the curtains, speak to him gently, assist him patiently, and genuinely ensure that he maintained his dignity, even in the most difficult moments.

What is most admirable is that Eli did all of this without it being part of her direct duties. She works in dialysis and was not part of the service where Mr. E was hospitalized. Even so, whenever he needed her, she volunteered to help him, assist him, and provide the comfort he required.

Even when she wasn't dialyzing him, she would simply come to keep him company, talk to him, or offer emotional support, because she knew that often what he needed most was to feel seen and treated with humanity. Eli didn't just see a complex patient; she saw a person going through one of the most difficult stages of his life.

Thanks to her empathy and dedication, Mr. E was able to live his last days with greater peace, less anguish, and feeling cared for.

Sadly, Mr. E passed away a few days ago. However, before he left, both he and his family expressed to us how much Elizabeth meant to them. They told us that she made him feel "almost at home," something profoundly valuable in a context of hospitalization and decline. The family highlighted how Eli not only cared for the patient but also provided emotional support to those accompanying him.

Elizabeth Venegas embodies the true spirit of the DAISY Award: a professional who transforms care into an act of love, humanity, and profound respect for the dignity of every person.