Jonathan Vogel

Jonathan Vogel, RN Pediatrics/Oncology, Walter Reed Army Medical Center Washington, DC

Jon was nominated by a patient's appreciative mother:

The person I am proud to nominate is LT. Jon Vogel of ward 51. Being a peds nurse takes patience and humor. LT. Vogel has these and much more. He goes above and beyond to keep a smile on my son's face even through tough obstacles. My son, Hayden, has been battling cancer since November of 2009 and having LT. Vogel there has made things easier. He blows bubbles, plays hide and seek, and has even been a shoulder to cry on for me. He is an exceptional nurse and is dedicated to what he does. He always seems to know when we need a pick me up. Hayden always wants to play with Jon. LT. Jon Vogel is our Patch Adams. He always takes time out of his busy day to put a smile on Hayden's face which in turn puts one on mine.

Lt. Vogel is pictured here with (L-R) Tena Barnes Carraher, Hayden and his parents,

Bonnie and Mark Barnes. Tena, Bonnie and Mark are with The DAISY Foundation.

Here's what Tena had to say about her experience:

What an honor and a thrill it was for me, to be in attendance at the first DAISY Award presentation at a military hospital, Walter Reed Medical Center in Washington, DC.  As the crowd filtered in, I couldn't help but think about the incredible contributions these men and women make every day and was humbled to hear the nominations that were read. There were many tears falling in the room as Hayden's mom read her nomination. 

LT Vogel came to the stage with a huge smile for all and a bear hug for Hayden and his family.  It was immediately clear why patients and their families treasure him and why he will be greatly missed when he is deployed.  LT Vogel believed he was attending a deployment meeting, not an award ceremony. So when his name was announced, he was genuinely surprised.

As usual, when a DAISY presentation is over, I am inspired and touched by a wide range of emotions.  This was the case after my experience at Walter Reed with one addition: bubbles.   When I arrived home, I hugged my kids a little tighter and made sure I spent time with them the next day blowing bubbles and playing hide and seek.