Nomination Letter
Written by client’s mother, Rachel
I initially thought Amiee was a little shy and quiet! However, I would describe her personality as very easy-going, fun, and oh so compassionate. She truly listens to whoever is speaking, giving her undivided attention. When we first met her, we were feeling so desperate. My child was going without needed care and I was having a hard time emotionally trying to juggle it all myself. Amiee provides in home nursing care for my disabled, medically complex, seven-year-old daughter. She was an answer to my prayers!
Amiee deserves to be recognized because she gives 110% every day. She is a hard worker, she is genuine, thorough, and focused in her clinical work. We can depend on her to be here every day and I know I can trust her completely. Amiee came to us when we needed her the most. She doesn't judge my child, or my other children, or me – even on our worst days! Most people cannot handle even the idea of a single mom with six kids (including special needs children) in a loud and sometimes chaotic home, but she loves us. She shows us that love every time she walks in the door. Amiee is patient and gentle and handles even stressful or medically scary situations with calm and strength. I truly don't know what we would do without her!
My fragile daughter Charlotte has trouble accepting new people in her life. She was a victim of the opioid epidemic, born addicted and sent home with drug addicts while still in withdrawal. She is blind, has a seizure disorder, CP, and global developmental delays from head trauma she suffered from being shaken as an infant. Trust must be built for everything. Charlotte can fuss, cry, stomp her feet or smack things away when she is afraid of a voice she doesn't recognize, is scared, or if she very upset when misunderstood. She will refuse to eat for new people. These things didn't seem to faze Amiee. She was gentle and patient. She took as long as Charlotte needed. She came back the next day, and I thought I would burst into tears!
She sees my daughter as the valuable person she is and respects her need to build that trust. She doesn’t give up on her. I truly cannot put into words how much Amiee has impacted my daughter's life, my family. She shows up for us. Charlotte now loves her; they have a very special bond. Charlotte gets excited to see her each shift, lights up and smiles, laughs and even teases Amiee regularly! They have made up games that my daughter anticipates each day and Amiee can calm her or figure out what she is trying to communicate so well.
I had hoped for clinical help with my child when Amiee came, but she has given far, far more than that. She has given Charlotte the dignity and hope she needed while providing excellent medical care!!! I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this award. Please consider your phenomenal employee Amiee Dayton for this award. Thank you!