Employee Recognition

We’re pleased to announce the DAISY regional award winners for the first quarter of 2025. These nurses have earned praise from patients, families and colleagues for providing extraordinary care and inspiration. Here’s what makes them special:

Critical Illness Recovery Hospitals DAISY Winners

Regency Hospital – Cleveland East: Josie Veon

“Josie is truly a gem,” stated a patient’s wife in her nomination. “She has met all my expectations and managed to surpass them with her warmth, caring, sensitivity and genuine desire to help her patients.” Josie was also recognized for the efforts she made to get to know the person her patient was before his illness and to actively talk and listen to him during their interactions. The patient’s wife shared, “She speaks to him on a personal level and keeps him calm by talking him through his fears.”

Regency Hospital – Minneapolis: Dylan Dennhardt

Nominated by several patients’ family members and a colleague, Dylan was highly commended for his care, compassion, communication and collaboration. “Dylan has such a big heart and this truly shows when he cares for his patients,” said a colleague. His patients’ family members agree, sharing, “Dylan balances caring for his patients with always being able to offer a helping hand to his aides and other nurses. He also works hard to bring a smile to people’s faces as he knows being in the hospital, especially for an extended time, is difficult,” and, “Dylan has been nothing but kind, understanding and a big support.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Battle Creek: Daniel Cortright

Nominated by both a patient and a colleague, Dan was recognized for consistently going above and beyond in listening, comforting and advocating for his patients. “Dan is so respectful and caring and one of the best nurses I have ever had,” shared his patient, “He explains things well when (my husband and I) have questions about my care and meds…he also encouraged me during my rehab. He has a great personality and helped me laugh and relax when I needed it so much.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Cleveland Fairhill: Julie Buck

Julie was nominated by a patient and a patient’s family who both noted her genuine caring, pleasant demeanor and willingness to listen and engage. “There have been days when I felt like giving up, but she was always there to remind me of the reason I have to move forward,” said her patient, calling Julie “an angel in my life.” Julie was commended by a patient’s family member for generously gifting her own religious charm bracelet to a patient. “My mom is pretty religious and this small gesture literally positively affects her mood multiple times daily,” said the family member.

Select Specialty Hospital – Downriver: Angela Alvarez

Nominated by a patient’s family member, Angela was praised for being a driving force in her mom’s healing: “Angela had a unique ability to connect with my mom, encouraging her to get up, move around and stay motivated on the road to recovery.” The family member also noted that even on days when she wasn’t assigned as her mother’s nurse, Angela would stop by to check on her.  Angela’s dedication was very meaningful to the family who expressed, “She is an exceptional nurse and an even more exceptional human being.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Flint: William Bowling

A patient’s family recognized William for the extraordinary care and respect he showed their mother, noting that she has severe anxiety and William’s thorough explanations and calm tone put her at ease during treatments. “Will has been her cheerleader since day one…he really makes a difference to patients and families,” said one of the patient’s daughters. When their mother was transferred to the ICU for emergency surgery, the family was touched that William asked to accompany them on a visit. “No nurse has ever cared that much. He truly makes our mom feel seen and heard—even though she can’t talk, he reads her lips.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Fort Myers: Max Reichbart

Max was nominated by a patient recovering from a stroke who appreciated his reassuring guidance through a “frightening and overwhelming time.” The patient acknowledged Max’s clinical knowledge as well as “his true strength—his ability to be patient and compassionate.” The patient shared that Max offered personal stories of encouragement, advocated for the patient with the care team and interacted with the patient’s family. Max’s skillful care was gratefully acknowledged: “Our family will never forget the lasting impact he had on us in the hardest days of our lives.”  

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Kellen "Chad" Byers

A patient’s wife recognized Chad for his “excellent clinical care” and his time and compassion in explaining treatment updates. She appreciated his attentiveness, “he made it a point to provide me with tea because he knows I like it,” and trusted his care. “When I finally decided to leave for a couple hours, Chad knew I would be worried and gave me his cell number so I could call and check on my husband.” Chad’s nominator also appreciated his comfort when her husband wasn’t doing well, “He took my hand and knelt down to assure me, saying, ‘We will help your husband.’ It’s how he said it and the care I saw in his eyes.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Melissa McCollum

Melissa was nominated by a patient’s wife for her attentive and caring demeanor—ordering food and snacks for the woman who was limited on time and money to do so herself, recognizing visiting family members and taking care of their needs, and providing a watchful and comfortable environment for the patient. The nominator noted, “She has given me laughter and joy during this critical time, truly gone out of her way and has made all the difference in the world to our family.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Tucson Northwest: Electra Johnson

Electra was praised by her nominator, a colleague, as “nothing short of excellent” and “phenomenal when it comes to the psychological aspect of healing—treating every patient with dignity, respect and compassion.” The colleague shared examples of Electra ordering a favorite food for a patient and comforting a grieving spouse, illustrating her giving nature and exceptional bedside manner. Additionally, the colleague appreciates how Electra routinely inspires her co-workers with a smile, joke or token of appreciation to cheer others along in their day. 

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals DAISY Winners

Banner Rehabilitation Hospital Phoenix: Catalina Kirk

“Not only is she caring and compassionate – she is a joy bringer!” is how the daughter of a patient described Catalina Kirk. When the patient’s hearing aids weren’t working, Catalina “took the time to listen and spoke loudly and clearly so my mother could hear.” The patient’s daughter praised Catalina’s professionalism, positive attitude and patience. “She took the time to answer my mother’s many questions with compassion and understanding even though she was busy showing the same care to many others,” adding, “She stands out as an extraordinary nurse. We are grateful and blessed she was assigned to provide care for my mom.”

California Rehabilitation Institute: Alisha Totty

Described as a “wonderful light in our world,” by the nominating patient and her daughter, Alisha was recognized for the caring, thoughtful and compassionate nature she exhibited to the patient and her family. “The hope and determination my mom has had since Alisha became her nurse, I can confidently say my mom has gotten so much better since being admitted here,” the patient’s daughter wrote. Reflecting on the patient’s journey, her daughter noted, “Alisha is helping my mom become herself again and we are so thankful.”

Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Chester: Stephanie Gonzales

Stephanie was nominated by a colleague who shared, “Stephanie assumed a newly created nurse practitioner role in the department and has made a significant positive impact.” For example, Stephanie assisted a patient with newly diagnosed advanced cancer to discharge home to her convent infirmary. Despite a request for additional, unique lab tests to be done prior to the patient's return home, Stephanie worked with the administration and the Department of Health to honor the patient's wish to return to the convent to proceed with treatment. Stephanie is appreciated by staff and patients alike for consistently achieving the best patient outcomes and assisting her colleagues with challenging situations.

Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital: Cassie Wilson

One patient during a 10-day stay at the rehabilitation hospital found Cassie’s focus on whatever task she’s doing at the moment to be so intense “it’s hard to understand how she has time for her other duties.” Cassie is “the epitome of what a nurse should be,” the nominator wrote. Two other nominators praised Cassie for her kindness and compassion.

Ochsner Rehabilitation Hospital: Fran St. Pierre

In addition to her administrative role as chief nursing officer – where her nominators praised her work in breaking down walls between therapists and nurses, Fran’s work with patients inspires her colleagues and helps everyone feel at ease. “Most of Fran’s time is spent on the unit, not in her office,” said CEO Emily Wiltenmuth, who joined two other nominators in celebrating Fran. “Watching Fran interact with our patients is a master class in compassion. I have learned a lot by rounding with her.” A patient’s daughter-in-law also added a patient perspective on her work, sharing: “my father-in-law really loves her. He feels safe.”

We’re pleased to announce the DAISY regional award winners for the second quarter of 2024. These nurses have earned praise for their extraordinary care from patients, families and colleagues. Here’s what makes them special:

Critical Illness Recovery Hospitals DAISY Winners

Select Specialty Hospital – Downriver: Kimberly Antolak

Kim was nominated by a patient’s daughter for the way she connected with and motivated her mother, who was fearful about her mobility challenges. Kim didn’t just provide excellent care; she got to know her patient, talked with her, addressed her fears and stressed the importance of mobility exercises. “There were days when my mother felt discouraged, but Nurse Kim was there holding her hand, offering words of encouragement that lifted her spirits remarkably,” the daughter said.  

Select Specialty Hospital – Columbus Grant: Jennifer Bass

Compassionate. Empathetic. Encouraging. Funny. Loving. Selfless. That is how a patient’s wife described Jen, who cared for her husband for an extended period of time. “She picked him up when he was down. She has talked him off the ledge when he is having a panic attack. She’s prayed with him. She’s joked with him and she truly cares about him,” the wife wrote, noting that Jen has done the same for her and her family. Jen isn’t just her husband’s nurse, she said. She is now also a dear friend.

Select Specialty Hospital – Battle Creek: Abigail Bittner

A patient who is a Vietnam veteran and copes with post-traumatic stress disorder nominated Abby for her compassion, sharing a compelling story of the day he suffered a panic attack and Abby came to his rescue. “She took me out of the room for a wheelchair ride down the hall. We took time to look at the pictures, she got me a popsicle and stayed with me until I got through it … she helped me through a rough afternoon,” he said.

Select Specialty Hospital – Tri Cities: Jack Duncan 

Jack was nominated by a colleague who said she frequently observes his compassion toward, and connection with, the patients in his care. She was particularly touched when Jack celebrated the birthday of a patient whose stay was longer than anticipated and whose family lived out of state. “I am around Jack on the unit and he always conveys thoughtfulness and is caring in all situations,” his colleague said.

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Felicia Fuqua

Felicia’s nomination was submitted by a patient’s wife who said Felicia made them feel special the way she answered all of their questions, anticipated their needs and looked out for their safety. For example, Felicia knew the couple enjoyed ice and brought them cups of ice several times a day. “She was always cheerful and would ask my husband how his therapy and his day were. She praised him for the progress he made,” the wife wrote.

Select Specialty Hospital – Laurel Highlands: Renee Gratter

A patient’s daughter summarized Renee’s care this way: “It is always heartening and rare to encounter an individual who is so well-suited for their career choice.” Renee always had a smile and encouraging word, eagerly addressed all issues and worries and gave generously of her time to listen. Renee even inquired about the patient’s progress following discharge. “She is not only highly capable, but also a compassionate and nurturing person to her core.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Augusta UH: Mica Hunter

Mica’s nomination came from the mother of a patient who praised Mica’s care and compassion toward her son. Mica mixed ice with the patient’s apple juice so that it was as cold as he liked it. When the vending machines didn’t have strawberry or grape diet drinks, Mica got them for him. She made sure his pills were crushed tiny enough so that he would take his medication. “We saw that same care with other patients,” the mother said. “She is an example of an exemplary nurse.”

Select Specialty Hospital – North Knoxville: Barbara Lowe

Barbara was nominated by a patient’s wife for the outstanding care she provided not only to him, but their family. Barbara “has a sweet and humble attitude” and treats patients as if they were her own loved ones. She explains things in a way that everyone can understand and provides excellent care to her patients.  “Nurses like Barbara need to be recognized for their outstanding performance,” the nominator wrote.

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Dream Stott

Dream was nominated by a patient for her excellent, attentive care. Dream brought him coffee, answered his questions and continually checked on him. On the patient’s last day, Dream promised him four walks and, although her shift was over, Dream escorted him on his final walk. “I told her she was off and to go home to her family and she said, ‘I promised you four and we are doing four.’  Before she left the room she told me I was a good patient, she hugged me and told me to keep working on getting better.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Youngstown: Danielle Wess

Danielle was nominated by a colleague who called out her extraordinary compassion for her patients and her willingness to lend a hand whenever it is needed. Danielle takes time to get to know her patients and their needs. Her colleague cited examples of how Danielle’s commitment to patients – for example, her thoroughness in reviewing charts – resulted in better outcomes, saying that Danielle’s priority “is always ensuring the patient’s medical care and safety.” 

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals DAISY Winners

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton: Brandy Cook

Brandy was called “a ray of sunshine” by the family of a patient with a form of cancer that caused spinal compression. “Brandy is an extremely compassionate, skilled nurse who is curious about her patients’ lives as individuals,” they wrote. “She demonstrated empathy while encouraging (the patient) to be optimistic and have faith in the process of rehabilitation.” Brandy empowered the patient to make decisions regarding her self-care, pain control and medication. She also provided extensive education so that the patient could return home as independently as possible.

Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Saddle Brook: Cristine Maranon

Seven colleagues at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Saddle Brook nominated Cristine for her compassionate, patient-centered care; team approach; critical thinking and clear communication skills. “Cristine is an extraordinary, humble, loving, caring nurse,” said one nominator. “I have been a staff member at Kessler for 23 years and I have never met anyone like her.” Others remarked on her work ethic, focus on safety, leadership and positivity. All agree that if Cristine is working with them, they are that much more excited for their shift.

Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Marlton: Anthony “Tony” Tran

Nominated by a patient and two patients’ family members, Tony was recognized for his passion for nursing, selflessness, calm demeanor and fantastic attitude. He is also known for his ability to start an IV line in the toughest of cases. “Tony displayed an extraordinary level of compassion, empathy and professionalism,” said one nominator, who explained how Tony thoroughly explained what to expect during stroke recovery, alleviating anxiety. Another nominator described Tony as “having a wonderful personality and spirit – a perfect combination manifesting a phenomenal nurse.”

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton: Steven Richardson

Steven was nominated by a patient who was touched by a caring gesture. “I was in the hospital on St. Patrick’s Day, which for me means corned beef and cabbage,” the patient wrote. “Steven and I talked about it and I told him it was probably the first time in 50 years that I didn’t have my favorite holiday dish.” The next day, Steven brought the patient personally prepared corned beef, cabbage, potatoes and carrots. “You can imagine my surprise!” the patient said. “I almost cried at the kind gesture. That was indeed above and beyond the scope of his job."

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton: Deborah Wagner

“A kind, loving nurse and a lovely person” is how the former patient who nominated Deborah described her. “What I loved most were our conversations,” the patient wrote. Deborah and the patient bonded over their shared interests, including pets and baking, with the patient saying, “We talked about our lives and our similarities. I believe she might be one of the most kind and compassionate women I’ve ever met.” The patient was equally impressed by Deborah’s skills as a nurse. “Her level of care was impeccable.”

We’re pleased to announce the DAISY regional award winners for the third quarter of 2024. These nurses have earned praise for their extraordinary care from patients, families and colleagues. Here’s what makes them special:

Critical Illness Recovery Hospitals DAISY Winners

Angalina Lowery: Select Specialty Hospital – Akron

A patient described Angalina as down to earth and someone she could talk with about anything, writing, “Every time Angalina walked by my room, she would always check on me no matter what she was doing.” The patient was especially grateful for the time Angalina took from her busy schedule to help her untangle her hair. “She is the best nurse I’ve ever had. I’m going to come back and visit her.”  

Carlos Filpo Pena: Select Specialty Hospital – Richmond

Six colleagues nominated Carlos, with each telling sharing a story of how Carlos is an exceptional nurse, team player, teacher, mentor and patient advocate – and how he always has a smile and kind word. “He takes the time to educate staff to give the best patient care,” one wrote. Another said, “He is always one call away for a helping hand, no matter if he is assigned to the patient or not.”

Courtney Graham: Select Specialty Hospital – Savannah

A patient’s loved one nominated Courtney after her swift and thorough response to the patient – already medically complex – experiencing an emergency. Courtney listened to the family member, evaluated the patient, checked his medical records and identified the diagnosis within minutes. “What a huge catch!” the nominator wrote. “My loved one’s outcome could have been devastating. It wasn’t. It’s possible he could have had lasting effects. He won’t.”

Crystal Eckhardt: Regency Hospital – Springdale

A patient’s daughter nominated Crystal for her “genuine care and compassion” toward her father. The patient had to return home while her father was still hospitalized and Crystal’s exceptional care eased her concerns. “She ensured me of his well-being and offered to arrange face-to-face calls … she is more than a nurse. She is an extraordinary human being.”

Franika Flores: Select Specialty Hospital – Youngstown

Franika was nominated by a colleague who said her kindness, compassion and dedication are unmatched. Franika is an expert wound care nurse who “coordinates daily with the physicians, ensuring that every detail is addressed, even when it means following up after hours or on days off.” Not only do patients and their loved ones praise her care and concern, but physicians refer patients to the hospital because of Franika.

Karen Wallace: Select Specialty Hospital – Battle Creek

Karen’s extraordinary compassion toward a patient prompted his daughter to nominate Karen, calling her a superhero. “My mom wasn’t there when my father took his last breath. Karen let us know that she and the staff were with him and she assured my mom that he wasn’t distressed. She even got me a copy of my father’s last normal heartbeat.” She thanked Karen for showing that kind of compassion to all families at the hospital.

Olena Zupan: Select Specialty Hospital – North Knoxville

Olena puts her patients’ comfort and well-being first, evidenced by a patient’s nomination that cited several examples of Olena’s compassion. The patient was undergoing wound care treatment and Olena ensured her sheets were soft. Olena chose to sit on the bed next to the patient during mobility exercises, encouraging her. “She plans my wound care around when I want it … she goes out of her way to make certain I am taken care of,” the patient wrote.

Onquinette Hayslett: Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West

Onquinette was nominated by two patients’ loved ones for the care she provided to their fathers. Both families praised her compassion, thoroughness and attention to every detail for patients’ physical and emotional well-being. “Having Onquinette as my father’s nurse always gave my family peace and comfort – as well as my dad,” one wrote, with the other saying, “I knew when I met her that she was one of the chosen few who really can make a difference.”

Sheila Joyner: Select Specialty Hospital – Greensboro

Sheila was nominated by a colleague who said it’s evident that Sheila loves her job and caring for people. She cited Sheila’s care of a patient with ALS as one example. The patient could only communicate through eye movement. Sheila continually assessed him, did range of motion exercises every two hours and continually encouraged him, telling him to be strong and have faith. “The patient always told everyone how dedicated Sheila was to him and her job.”

Tondralanique Jude: Regency Hospital – Porter County

Danielle was nominated by a colleague who called out her extraordinary compassion for her patients and her willingness to lend a hand whenever it is needed. Danielle takes time to get to know her patients and their needs. Her colleague cited examples of how Danielle’s commitment to patients – for example, her thoroughness in reviewing charts – resulted in better outcomes, saying that Danielle’s priority “is always ensuring the patient’s medical care and safety.” 

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals DAISY Winners

Amynah Myers:  Banner Rehabilitation Hospital – Phoenix

Amynah was nominated by a patient who said she was “the most caring and kind nurse I’ve ever had.” When the patient awoke one morning with facial swelling and pain, “Amynah recognized immediately that something was wrong,” the patient recalled. “I did not have any family with her that day, so Amynah became my family member by giving me a hug and telling me how concerned she was for me when I was upset.” Later in her stay, after the patient had shared her love of art and showed some of her paintings, Amynah surprised the patient with the gift of a painting set. “The gift was so thoughtful,” the patient wrote. “She really showed how much she cared for me."

Janet Dalida: Honor Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Scottsdale

Janet was nominated by a patient who recognized her for her compassion and reassurance during a four-night stay. Janet established a connection with the patient and earned the patient’s trust by discussing her extensive experience as an intensive care unit nurse. The patient found solace in Janet’s reassuring words that her wounds were healing well. “Her calm and sweet approach was exactly what I needed so I could rest,” the patient said. “I felt appreciated that she stayed with me until I felt better.”

Kelly Forsch: Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital – Edwin Shaw

Kelly was nominated by the wife of a patient whose husband had experienced an extensive stroke that affected his ability to communicate, eat and care for himself. The patient’s wife, who had a fear of hospitals, was grieving and struggling to cope. “I was basically in shock and denial,” she wrote. “Kelly attempted, from the start, to actively involve me in my husband’s care.” When the patient’s wife resisted, Kelly was gently persistent, training her using different forms of education including videos and hands-on demonstration. “Things that I said I couldn’t do at the very beginning, she showed me I could do,” the patient’s wife shared. “Kelly also encouraged me to be an advocate for my husband and start doing anything extra with him that I could – so I did!”

Kelly Gottlieb: Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Marlton

One of Kelly’s patients had a terminal cancer diagnosis. Kelly worked with the patient’s spouse so that he could bring her home after discharge. “This spouse felt heard and even validated for being absolutely terrified worrying about what could go wrong,” said Kelly’s nominator. Kelly had experienced a similar loss and shared the knowledge and resources she found helpful. Because of Kelly’s kindness, he was empowered to care for his wife in the end stages of her life. “He recently lost her,” said the nominator, “and he was compelled to reach out to get a message to Kelly as to the difference she made.”

Marjan Fedai: California Rehabilitation Institute

Just three days after traveling 3,000 miles to visit her granddaughters, the patient who nominated Marjan suffered a traumatic leg break that required her hospitalization. “My husband was in North Carolina,” the patient wrote. “I was not only in pain, but I was fearful and lonely.” The patient, who was a nurse for 50 years, praised Marjan’s professionalism, clinical competence and compassion. “When Marjan became my night nurse, I knew I could rest well in her care,” she wrote. “She relieved my loneliness with our late-night chats and eased my pain with positioning and medication. She made me ready to walk my path toward healing with the sunrise.”

We’re pleased to announce this quarter’s DAISY regional award winners. Patients, colleagues and families have called out the following 15 nurses for the extraordinary care and support they provide in their patients’ recoveries. Here’s what makes them special:

Critical Illness Recovery Hospitals DAISY Winners

Abel De Jesus – Select Specialty Hospital – Fort Myers

The wife of a patient who underwent care for three months at multiple hospitals and intensive care units – encountering more than a hundred nurses along the way – praised Abel for his professionalism, knowledge and empathy. “If I could choose, (Abel) would take care of my husband every day,” she said. She was particularly grateful for the day Abel took her husband in the sunlight in his wheelchair. “When he felt the sun on his face, he began to cry,” she said. “What a gesture of pure human kindness. Abel is one of your greatest assets.”

Sarah Ross – Select Specialty Hospital – Fort Myers

A patient’s close friend nominated Sarah for the “gentle and caring, full of love and understanding” manner in which she took care of the patient, who suffered a brain stem stroke. Sarah had a way with the patient that got him to open his mouth, breathe, talk, cough and do other exercises. “Above all, [Sarah] got him to smile when she told him they would go cruising in his Ford Mustang,” the friend wrote, saying he hadn’t seen a smile on the patient’s face since his stroke. “I will never forget it.”

Hector Rivera – Select Specialty Hospital – Orlando South

A patient’s wife recognized Hector for the attention he showed her husband, who arrived at the hospital critically ill and nonverbal. Hector was stationed outside the patient’s ICU room and informed the wife when he needed to go elsewhere, making her feel at ease. When Hector came into the room, he always spoke to the patient – not just her – even saluting the patient once, prompting a return salute from her husband. Hector’s ultimate act was shaving the patient to make him look nice. “His kindness meant just as much as his clinical expertise.”

Emily Pate – Select Specialty Hospital – Town and Country

Emily noticed when a patient’s daughter was anxious about leaving her mother for a few hours to attend an important family event. The mother wasn’t one of Emily’s patients, but she still took time to talk with the daughter and promised to keep an eye on her mother and call if anything came up. Because of her Emily’s care and concern, the family was able to make a beautiful memory – becoming godparents – that day. “That day she provided care for my mother and me and I will always be grateful.”

Kristina Siradze-Meskhi – Select Specialty Hospital – Cincinnati North

A patient nominated Kristina for the way Kristina encouraged and talked with her at a time when the patient – a mother – was hurting and missing her children. Kristina listened, shared about her own children and made the patient laugh. The patient said it best: “You gave me comfort when I needed it most. You took time to listen to my emotions and you guided me, my dear friend, without even knowing it … You lifted my spirits when my spirits were empty. I will forever carry your kindness in my heart.”

Brian Morgan – Select Specialty Hospital – Alle Kiski

The daughter of a patient was grateful for the way Brian compassionately cared for her mother, holding her mother’s hand, encouraging her and telling her how well she was doing even when she was still unresponsive. Brian also took care of the family, greeting them by name and taking time to explain the medications he was administering. “He never made it seem like we were asking too many questions or taking up too much of his time,” the daughter wrote. “Brian is the definition of extraordinary.”

Brittany Fuller – Select Specialty Hospital – Erie

A nurse nominated Brittany for her dedication to her patients, their families and her colleagues. Brittany arrives at work a half hour early so she has time to review her patients’ records. She buys newspapers, books, toiletries and stress-reducing gadgets for all patients, not just her own. She knows family members by name and goes out of her way to help her colleagues. At Thanksgiving, Brittany brought a meal for the staff to enjoy and during a snowstorm, she left home early to drive colleagues to work.

Stacey Birchak – Select Specialty Hospital – Laurel Highlands

A colleague nominated Stacy after an extraordinary act of kindness toward a dying patient. When the family gathered to say good-bye, it was important to the patient and his family that he be given last rites. The hospital was unable to reach a priest and time was running out. Instead of telling the family it couldn’t be done, Stacey searched for the Catholic prayer recited during last rites and went to the bedside herself, hoping they would find comfort. The patient died minutes later. “The family was extremely grateful for Stacey’s compassion,” her colleague wrote.

Alexis Hawkins – Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West

A patient’s daughter nominated Alexis for the compassionate, nurturing care she provided to her father, saying Alexis treats him as if he was her own family. The daughter was also grateful for Alexis’ care toward her, particularly the day she visited her dad and he didn’t immediately recognize her. “Alexis gave me a hug and reassured me,” the daughter wrote. “She stayed by my side until he realized it was me and showed me how to feed him ice chips.” On the days the daughter has to work, she said she’s comforted knowing Alexis is her father’s nurse.

Jaquita Cornelius – Inova Specialty Hospital

A patient’s wife wrote that Jaquita gives meaning to the phrase, “caring for the patient and family.” Jaquita provided impressive and compassionate care to the patient during his nearly month-long stay – continually checking on him, calling him by his name, interacting with his wife and always explaining what she was doing. The wife also appreciated how Jaquita addressed situations that were brought to her attention. “She most definitely established a trusting relationship with me … I am so proud to have met and have had her as my husband’s caregiver.”

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospital DAISY Winners

Megan Page – Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Saddle Brook

Nine of Megan’s colleagues nominated her for The DAISY Award. Among the nomination forms, Megan met every criterion in the “how does your nominee make a meaningful difference?” category. Here are a few fantastic things that Megan’s nominees said about her:

• “Megan has been taking on more responsibilities and has grown so much since she began working here. She brings comfort to her patients and is good support system for other nurses and aides, especially new hires.”
• “Meg has floated to my unit for multiple weeks as a preceptor for new grad RNs and made herself an integral part of the team.”
• “Her energy lights up the room!”

Ethel Deblock – Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Marlton

When your spouse suffers a stroke, your world turns upside down. Ethel was nominated for The DAISY Award for her ability to bring order and calm to those around her. “Ethel was [my husband’s] nurse for two days over the weekend,” said the nominator. “She has such a calm and efficient way about her and she creates a very healing atmosphere.” Even though it was the weekend, Ethel made sure that patients stayed on top of their therapy goals. Her nominator added that Ethel was extremely gentle to other patients, some of whom were alone. “I was so touched by her kindness to this man who was facing a lot of challenges alone,” she said. “Thank you, Ethel. You are a super nurse!”

January Seikel – Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital, Edwin Shaw

January was nominated by two patients who were both impressed and touched by her thoughtfulness. Knowing one patient was struggling to sleep, January checked in on him each night, even when she was not assigned to him.  “She looked in on me three times and even went and got me an orange sherbet,” the patient wrote. “That night she was my ‘guardian angel’ when I needed it the most.” January formed a special connection with her other nominator as well. “[She] treated me not just as a patient, but as a person and friend,” she wrote. “Her genuine kindness and thoughtful conversations made me feel heard and valued. I never felt alone, event during night shifts.” The patient also described how January surprised her with a dozen roses and a note the day before she was discharged. “This gesture truly touched my heart.”

Allison Barnes – Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital, Edwin Shaw

Described as a “breath of fresh air” and a “ball of energy,” Allison’s kindness and empathy leaves an impact with patients and families alike. “She listens, she cares and she tries her best to make her patients feel safe and comfortable. Her sense of humor really brightened my dad and increased my hopefulness,” one patient wrote. “She never made me feel embarrassed and protected my dignity whenever possible. Allison made me feel human during a very difficult time.” The spouse of another patient wrote, “Allison demonstrated care and empathy to our whole family, taking time to talk to us each day. We so appreciate the care we’ve received.”

Dioryl Ganapin – Baylor Scott & White - Dallas

Caring for people experiencing extreme pain is a gift. Dioryl was nominated for The DAISY Award for her skilled care and kindness. Her nominator said that Dioryl always promptly answered the call button and was ready to problem solve, whether the issue was nerve pain, cramps or side effects from medication. “When I was close to a level 10 pain situation, Dioryl walked in my room with kindness and tenderness,” said her nominator. “I never asked her to massage my leg and foot; she knew by instinct what I needed.” Within five minutes, the patient said she was able to rest thanks to the care she received.