I have always considered myself invincible, courageous, strong, stubborn, and totally independent. Well, last April I noticed a lump in my breast which sent me spiraling. After a confirmed diagnosis of breast cancer, I pulled into myself and informed my family not to share this diagnosis with anyone. This all changed when I met Alicia at the cancer center. She treated me as a patient who needed understanding, teaching, empathy, and caring. I am an RN, too, but most of the time, when I am the patient, I don't tell my caregivers because I don't want them to treat me like I know everything about nursing.

Alicia was professional in her duties as an infusion nurse - washing her hands between patients and wearing a mask and gown when sticking that blasted needle in my port. She was also friendly, compassionate, and warm. Alicia knew exactly what to say to her scared and tearful patient to calm her nerves and help her understand what to expect for the next 12 weeks of chemotherapy. I was totally blessed every time I went in for my treatments to find out that Alicia would be my nurse for the next 3 hours. Alicia truly deserves a DAISY Award and recognition for the care she provides to her patients daily.