Don cared for my son throughout his six-week hospital stay. Although all the nurses were phenomenal, Don quickly stood out to my husband and me as a special person in our son's care team. There are several reasons Don deserves a DAISY Award and, quite frankly, too many to list. First and foremost, Don treated my son as not just another patient but as I. In just a few shifts, he knew my son's personality quirks, dislikes, likes, and special needs. He knew "I" loved hair rubs and being swaddled in his sleep sack. Don learned "I's" bedtime routine. Don spent countless hours soothing "I" as he experienced severe withdrawal symptoms. He would often rub "I's" hair as he charted to keep him calm. When our son was inconsolable, Don would rock him. One night, "I" was so distressed from withdrawing, Don rocked him and sang him Filipino lullabies. My husband and I knew "I" was in phenomenal hands when Don was the nurse, and slept well knowing he was in Don's care. Don even remembered our son's 10-month birthday and brought him balloons, which he loved.

Second, Don went above and beyond in everything he did. He was careful, meticulous, and thoughtful with every care he provided for our son. He was knowledgeable and continually updated us on the plan of care. He truly cared. Not only did he support "I" throughout his recovery process, but also my husband and I.

Third, Don was always a team player. He would stay extra to pick up hours and shifts on the unit when they were short nurses. It wasn't uncommon for Don to work 16-hour shifts or come in on his days off. We truly appreciated him staying longer and picking up additional shifts so our son could have continuity of care. By the end of our stay, Don became "Uncle Don" to our family because of how well he knew our son. He came to truly be one of the most memorable aspects of our stay. We will forever be thankful for the care Don provided our son.