When my grandfather's condition worsened, I flew down to Florida urgently and arrived at the hospital flustered, but immediately felt comforted, not only by Erin's kindness towards me, but especially by the way she was caring for my grandfather. This was a tough time for my family, but somehow Erin made it easier.
She was so incredibly patient with my grandfather. At one point he became increasingly restless and agitated and could not get comfortable in any position. He would ask Erin to help move him one way or another, only to realize it was more uncomfortable than before, and then ask to try yet another position. Erin must have stayed with him for 30 minutes trying every combination of positions she could think of, and, sure enough, Pop was eventually comfortable. I know this could have easily been a frustrating use of time in the middle of a busy shift; but, if it was, Erin never let it show. And I have the sense it did not frustrate Erin because she cared just as much as we did about making Pop as comfortable as she possibly could.
On top of caring exceptionally for Pop, Erin also made time to get to know each and every one of Pop's visitors and trust me, there were a lot of us. She never let us feel like we were in the way and she always worked around us to allow us to be close to Pop. And she also connected with Pop herself in the comparatively short time that she was with him. My grandfather could not stop praising her and her care. He constantly was thanking her for everything she did.
There was one moment in particular I will never forget. Pop was due for a medication to help keep him calm. Erin came over, knelt next to Pop, and administered the medication in his IV. At that moment, Pop took my hand and Erin's and started a prayer. Erin did not hesitate and joined right in. She laughed with us, cried with us, and prayed with us. She truly went above and beyond to make my grandfather and the rest of my family comfortable. This compassionate care meant more to our family then I can ever express.
Erin never rushed her care, she connected with Pop, and she displayed her kindness every time she entered the room. I personally know how hard this can be, especially during a busy shift, and it seemed effortless for her. Erin even stayed three hours past her shift to take care of Pop and ensure his transition to hospice went smoothly. It was comforting having her around during this time, and she made a world of difference. I know how meaningful the DAISY Award is and I cannot think of a better candidate than Erin Doyle.
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We had the pleasure of having Erin for my father in law in the ICU. Her calm friendly demeanor with a high level of professionalism was exemplary. She was a great comfort to an obvious struggling family as my father in law approached the end of his life. In my professional opinion Erin is a role model for any ICU nurse.