I am honored to nominate Laura Delaney for the DAISY Award in recognition of the exceptional care and compassion she provided during my hospitalization in Duluth, Minnesota, following unexpected vascular surgery.

Going into surgery for a condition I did not even know I had was overwhelming and frightening. When I learned I had a 100% blockage in my left leg and a 99% blockage in my right leg, I was scared to death and had no idea what to expect. From the moment Laura began caring for me, she brought calm, reassurance, and genuine kindness that made a lasting difference in my recovery.

Laura consistently ensured I was comfortable, carefully checked my incisions, and always checked for pulses in both of my legs to monitor circulation. She made sure my medications were given on time, and her attention to detail and dedication to my care never wavered.

What truly set Laura apart was her strong advocacy and clinical attentiveness. When I mentioned a pain, she took it seriously and ensured it was evaluated, which revealed a small bleed that might otherwise have been missed. She also identified that a drop in my blood pressure was related to a pain medication I was receiving and made sure I understood this so I could avoid it in the future. Her actions directly protected my safety and improved my care.

Laura also helped me better understand my lupus and how it may contribute to and interact with my other health conditions, giving me a clearer understanding of my overall health during a very difficult time.

She also made my recovery and hospital stay educational, taking time to explain what was happening and helping to ease much of my fear and uncertainty. Her ability to calm me and help me understand what I was experiencing made a tremendous difference in my healing.

Beyond her clinical skill, Laura always came in with a smile and never made me feel like I was taking up her time. She made me feel valued as a person, not just a patient. She supported me through important milestones in recovery, including my first walk after surgery, staying attentive and ensuring I was safe every step of the way.
Even though I had very little appetite, she patiently encouraged me and helped me find something—no matter how small—to help regain my strength.

On a personal level, Laura took time to connect with me about my family and grandchildren, whom I was missing terribly back in Nebraska. We also talked about my Pug, who is like another child to me and was very sick at the time. I was unsure I would see him again, and her kindness during that emotional period meant more than I can express.

Because of Laura, a frightening and uncertain time in my life became one marked by compassion, dignity, and healing. I came into this experience scared and uncertain, and I left feeling cared for, informed, and truly supported. She did far more than provide excellent nursing care—she transformed my experience of recovery in ways that will stay with me for the rest of my life. I will never forget her kindness, and I sincerely hope she is recognized for the extraordinary nurse she is. She is deeply deserving of the DAISY Award, and I cannot imagine a more fitting recipient.