I am nominating Colleen on behalf of my mother. My mom was the strongest person I know. She was independent and strong willed and had the most loving heart. My mom was diagnosed with lung cancer in June. Having no symptoms, by the time she was diagnosed, the cancer was stage 4. On the day she was admitted to Aurora, she had rung the bell that morning for completing her full brain radiation. This was a huge moment for her! Unfortunately, blood work that day indicated her liver had stopped functioning. She was transported to Aurora in Green Bay to have surgery, which was not successful. Colleen was our nurse after she was admitted onto the floor, and we instantly felt love and compassion from her. Somehow, she knew how to put my mom at ease. Colleen would spend time with my mom, and they would share stories, all the while she was lovingly attending to her. Colleen listened closely to my mom express her concerns. We knew we only had a very short time with our mom. Colleen listened compassionately to our mother's fears, as well as ours. My mother's wish was to be home for the time she had left. She needed to be transported back home quickly.

On the day she was going to be transported home, I got to witness how truly amazing Colleen is. She helped get my mother ready for transport. She sat on her bedside and told my mom how strong and beautiful she was. My mom saw that she had two DAISIES (mom's favorite flower) on her name tag. Colleen explained what they were. My mother looked directly into my eyes and said, "You need to get her a DAISY for me." I knew she was serious. I told her I would do everything in my power to do it. Colleen told my mother she would name the DAISY after her, and she would wear her by her heart forever. My mother hugged her, thanked her, and told her she loved her. Tears were flowing. I can't even tell you what a moment this was. Raw, true emotions.

We lost my mom in September. She was surrounded by her family in her home. Just like she wanted to be. Would you please help me fulfill my mom's one wish that I told her I would do? My family and I would love to have a DAISY named after my mom, rest by Colleen's heart while she continues to provide amazing care for other patients and families, the way she did for ours. We never got to truly thank her for all she did. I'm hoping this will be a small way to do that. From my mom and family, we love you, Colleen!