Daisy Award

Nomination Year: 2025
Nominated by: Merlin W. (Patient)

Story: “Fortunately, even at the age of 79, I have only been a patient 3 times. Among the MANY excellent nurses here – Roann is my number 1 choice. She models empathy and demonstrates a caring attitude. She was always concerned about the details and kept me informed 24/7. I can tell her co-workers have the upmost respect for her. There was other nurse’s high-up on my list, but Roann was always at the top!”

Nomination Year: 2024
Nominated by: Patient

Story #1: "Emergency Nurse Emmalee was exceptional. Her Skill and her ability to connect in a compassionate way couldn't be a better organizational steward. She should be recognized as this was single-handedly the best interaction I've ever had in healthcare. Excellence needs to be recognized, and she advocated, educated, and ensured I knew what to expect and was comfortable throughout my visit. Dr. Rodriguez was concise and very helpful in getting me the necessary care while explaining things thoroughly. They turned what could have been a nightmare into the best situation possible. Thank you.”

Nomination Year: 2024
Nominated by: Candy (Story 1) and Laura (Story 2)

Story #1: “From the day I met Barb, she treated us all like equals. She showed no favoritism. Though things could get a little chaotic, especially around meals, she stayed even tempered and respectful to us all. She's kind and a sweet soul. Thank you, Barb, for your true care." - Candy

Story #2:  “Barb is an extraordinary advocate who is extremely invested in her patients well-being in the present moment as well as their discharge. When I arrived on the unit I was a complete emotional mess. I had a ponytail holder that was given to me as an emotional promise before arriving here at SBHU. It was “mental glue” that was holding me together. It disappeared mysteriously from my room and I fell apart. Barb came in and told me that she would hunt it down! I didn’t believe her. However, towards the end of her 12 hour shift at the end of the day, something told me to look up. As I did I saw Barb coming down the hall holding the ponytail holder up in the air! She found it mixed up in the laundry room. It meant he world to me whether it sounds silly or not. 

The Life changer – I heard rumors about the possibility of going back to the rehab program in which I was in which is likened to Hades. It’s why I landed in here. Mentally abusive and all around unhealthy. I became hysterical and I shared my story with Barb, telling her that to be sent back would totally wipe out everything that I had accomplished thus far on SBHU for the positive. Barb put her hand on my shoulder and stated, “I will fight for you!” I thought it was kind of her to say but unfeasible to say the least.  However, she did! She shared my story with my planning team of workers and I was totally blown away when I met with my NP and she assured me that they were NOT going to send me back to Hades. Barb had kept her word and fought. Not to be terribly dramatic but she very literally saved my life and I am forever grateful." - Laura

Nomination Year: 2024
Nominated by: Michael Wietor

Story "On Friday January 19, 2024, I was admitted to Watertown Regional Medical Center through the emergency room from a VFib incident. According to my wife, Melissa rarely left my room. She monitored my vitals, made sure all my IVs were working properly, and made sure I was comfortable, and my wife was well-informed. When I awoke the next day, there was Melissa making sure all was well. When my breathing tube was removed, she did everything she could to make me comfortable. I realize that this may be her job, but she did it with uncompromising efficiency, care, and professionalism. She always treated me with respect and dignity making sure all my needs and questions were met and answered. It seems when I suffer a medical emergency or procedure, I always seem to have some of the best doctors and technicians and now I can add the best nurse to care for and guide me through the first stage of my recovery. I feel very blessed to have her leading my care and treatment. I ask that you seriously consider her for this award. Because of her care (as well as the doctors, nurses, and technicians) I have and will continue to spread praises for my unparalleled treatment and care at Watertown Regional Medical Center."