I came to meet Daniella Ashwood, RN, on the first day of my post partum stay. She was the nurse assigned to me and I believe that if she was not my nurse that day, my day would have been completely different. She greeted me with an awesome attitude: a friendly smile, a positive demeanor, and a reassuring disposition. Nothing seemed to be a burden to her or better yet, an annoyance. All my concerns were no contest to her amazing character. I had a c-section and was on a medicated drip for high blood pressure. A medication that treats one thing but brings on undesirable side effects. A foley was in place and I was on bed rest. I was weak, felt nauseous, and could not enjoy the most wonderful time in of my life. All I wanted to do was get out of bed, wash up, and of course hold my baby girl. I was starting to feel sorry for myself then Daniella became my guardian angel. She discussed her plan of care for me which completely turned my day around. I questioned the need for the medication, which was one of several courses of treatment. She listened to my views and really "heard" me. She advocated for the discontinuation of the medication and the removal of the foley. She gave me a bed bath that was comparable to spa treatment. Within minutes I felt like a million bucks. I can remember it like it was yesterday. I will never forget how Daniella made me feel and what she did for me as a new mom who only wanted to bond with her baby girl.

I truly believe that Daniella Ashwood displays the true characteristics of a professional nurse. Early that morning I was already in awe of her favorable behavior, however at the end of the shift, I found out she was also the charge nurse, who was handling several staffing issues. She did not break a sweat once. She was attentive to all my needs so much so that I felt like I was her only patient. I can honestly state that I admire Daniella for the person and nurse that she is and feel honored to have been cared for by her. As a nurse fellow nurse, I admire her dedication and sincere passion for our profession.

For these reasons and much more, Daniella Ashwood exemplifies and extraordinary nurse.