Not long ago I had the opportunity to provide care for a patient that Dana had cared for the previous shift. Although the mother-baby unit generally cares for families that are celebrating new life, this particular family was enduring the ultimate demise of their first child. The infant was born with brain anomalies that might allow the baby to live 2 days or 2 months or even 2 years. The unknown possibilities in this situation created heartache and tension. Additionally, the family was Spanish speaking and it had been a difficult delivery requiring the mother needing extra attention post-partum. During bedside report with Dana, I was in awe of her compassion and tenderness. She speaks Spanish and was able to meet the needs of the patient and discuss difficult issues with her about the baby and her emotional needs that could be lost with an interpreter. I was impressed with Dana's ability to create a special connection with this family and help them begin to bond with a baby they weren't sure would be born alive.

On a daily basis Dana works with a smile on her face. She is thorough, friendly and always patient centered. She is an advocate for her patients and above all else makes sure their goals are met. She gets along well with her peers and does not complain about assignments or difficult patients. She is all-around an example of what a DAISY Award Honoree should be!