What is The DAISY Foundation?

In memory of J. Patrick Barnes

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died from complications of the autoimmune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem.

Read more about The DAISY Foundation or watch this video.

What is the DAISY Award?

The DAISY Award® is a special honor given to extraordinary nurses for the compassionate contributions they make every day going above and beyond expectations in science and sensitivity.

What does it mean to receive a DAISY Award?

Receiving a DAISY award means you have made a difference in the life of a patient, family, or colleague that they will never forget, and you join a worldwide community of extraordinary nurses, nursing faculty, and students. The benefits associated with being a DAISY Honoree last a lifetime. Even if you change organizations or roles, you are entitled to Honoree benefits throughout your career.

For Current DAISY Partners

Check out our latest updates and resources to help you maximize the DAISY program in your organization. Plus, access tips and testimonials from other DAISY partners.

DAISY was created to say “Thank You” to Nurses like these.

Search their stories here.

Front Page Spotlight Honorees

Shining the Light On All the Right

Celebrating the Art of Nursing Around the World

by Mark and Bonnie Barnes
Co-founders of The DAISY Foundation

Updated with new stories and chapters! Learn where DAISY got it's roots, and how we've grown over the last 25 years.

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Latest DAISY Foundation News

Newest Quarterly Update Now Available!

Click here to read the latest news, updates, and announcements!

DAISY Co-founder Bonnie Barnes Quoted in Two Forbes Magazine Articles!
View the Latest DAISY and Pathway to Excellence Webinar: Doing Business Differently
Our Fall Quarterly Update Now Available!

DAISY turns 25, a new edition

Recipients of the Inaugural DAISY Nurse Leader Awards in Forensic Nursing Have Been Announced!

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Industry Partners

The following companies share our passion for the work nurses do every day and demonstrate their commitment to our work by generously supporting The DAISY Foundation with a significant national donation. Click on each logo to learn more about these very important DAISY Partners.

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Supportive Associations

DAISY has grown internationally with the support of numerous organizations who know the value of recognizing the extraordinary compassionate work of nurses. We thank each of the following for collaborating with us to help advance our mission. Click on each logo to learn more about these very important supportive associations who are part of DAISY’s community!

Our Gratitude To

There are several organizations who make truly unique contributions to DAISY’s mission. Click on these logos to find out why we are so grateful to them.

International Advocates

International Advocates

International Advocates assist the DAISY Foundation in expanding the global reach of our nurse recognition programs.