Alicia Keeney, RN

During a particularly difficult shift, I was caring for a patient whose condition had suddenly declined. The physician had made the decision to call the family in to say their goodbyes, and the hours that followed were filled with urgent responsibilities—managing medications, contacting providers, and coordinating with the patient’s loved ones. In the midst of that chaos, one nurse stepped in with a level of compassion and presence that I will never forget.

Knowing that the patient was an avid WVU fan, Alicia went out of her way to enter the room and turn on WVU baseball highlights so he could watch something that brought him comfort and familiarity. It was such a small, thoughtful gesture, but in that moment it meant everything. She didn’t stop there. She repeatedly offered to sit with him so he wouldn’t be alone while I worked to manage the many tasks involved in his care. True to her word, she stayed by his side, ensuring that during a frightening and uncertain time, he had someone present with him.

She is known throughout our unit as one of the most empathetic people you could ever meet. She approaches even the most difficult situations with an open heart, wearing her compassion on her sleeve and pouring genuine love into every patient and family she encounters. Her ability to connect so deeply is shaped in part by her own experiences as a cardiac patient who has undergone open-heart surgery multiple times. Because of this, she relates to patients on a level that goes far beyond routine care—she truly understands what they are feeling.

Her insistence on staying with my patient during some of his final moments ensured he did not face that time alone. Allowing him to watch the team he loved one more time was a simple but incredibly meaningful act of humanity. The impact of her presence was felt not only by the patient, but also by his family and by me as his nurse.

The compassion, teamwork, and selflessness she demonstrated that day embody everything the DAISY Award stands for. She is the kind of nurse who reminds all of us why we chose this profession. I admire her deeply and aspire to provide the same level of heartfelt care that she gives to every patient she encounters.