Elaine turned out to be an invaluable help that I didn’t realize I needed until she showed up. When our shift began, it quickly became apparent that one of my patients needed to be upgraded to the MICU. They required a level of attention and interventions that my patient load couldn’t accommodate. Without hesitation, Elaine stepped in to offer her support. She frequently checked on my other patients, reassured them of my presence despite my temporary absence, provided updates, and even helped PT ambulate and do stairs with my high-fall-risk patient. She consistently asked when passing my room if I was doing okay and well-stocked with supplies. At one point, seeing that I was overwhelmed, Elaine just threw on a gown and simply walked in, asking, “What can I do?” knowing I couldn’t refuse help once she was all suited up with PPE and inside. She then took over organizing all my IV medications and fluids into just two access points with perfectly labeled lines—what a dream! When it was time to transport the patient, Elaine was there again. She helped me pack up the room, connect all the essential equipment, and reminded me to bring the Epi since I had forgotten just before moving. She stayed with me through the entire process, assisting with the transport and helping settle the patient into their new room. From 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., Elaine managed all this while also handling her own four-patient assignment that included a patient with COVID and actively participating in an ERT.

But what truly makes Elaine extraordinary is how she looked out for me – a nurse. Whenever she saw me waiting outside the patient’s room or staring blankly at the computer, she’d give me a pat on the back or a comforting hug. Her encouraging words and support kept my confidence up and reminded me I wasn’t alone. While excellent patient care reflects a nurse’s clinical skills, the ability to provide both physical and emotional support to a colleague speaks volumes about one’s extraordinary knowledge, experience, and humanity. Elaine’s dedication and compassion are deserving of recognition. Especially colleague to colleague acknowledgement, which is not commended as much in the workplace as it should be.

A DAISY Award would be a fitting tribute to her hard work and remarkable ability to balance and support her patients and colleagues so effectively. I am grateful to have the privilege of working with and being friends with her.