Cat is a shining example of what DAISY represents, and her compassion and thoughtfulness have left an indelible mark on my experience during my hospitalization at RUHS.

During the fourth month of hospitalization, I had the pleasure of being cared for by Cat. Having endured two holidays in the hospital without any visits from friends or family due to the loss of my phone during a transfer, I felt isolated, disconnected, and discarded. One night around 11:30 p.m., Cat and her colleague, R, entered my room to announce a heartfelt intention to not let me spend the rolling in of a new year in solitude. The announcement caused overwhelming feelings of empathy and love to wash over me. It was a moment that could have brought me to tears, but instead, I experienced immense joy and appreciation. We watched the ball drop countdown on T.V. and made makeshift party hats from craft materials Cat had gathered. It was one of the most memorable New Year’s celebrations I’ve ever had; something I never expected given the circumstances. Cat and R's decision to spend their evening celebrating with me, instead of attending a company party with their coworkers down the hall, was one of the most selfless and compassionate gestures I’ve ever experienced. The actions demonstrated a level of empathy and care that goes beyond any of the normal expectations of a caregiver.

I am forever grateful to Cat for bringing in the new year with a genuine smile and sense of gratitude for life. Her efforts have left a lasting impact on my heart, and I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have had such wonderful nurses. Cat's exceptional care, empathy, selflessness, commitment to her patients, and dedication make her an ideal candidate for the DAISY Award.

Thank you, Cat and R. You are both angels.