On, Friday, February 27, 2015, Amanda Varden, RN, overheard me discussing one of our patients with the patient's nurse and the fact that the patient was homeless. She came to me later and asked if the patient had any clothes, shoes, etc. I told her as far as I knew the patient came in with nothing. She went and asked the patient's PCA if she had any idea what size the patient wore. When the PCA went in to round on the patient, she found out what size the patient wore and told Amanda. When Amanda left work that night, she went to Wal-Mart and purchased the patient some personal care items, clothing, and undergarments. She didn't just buy the patient one of each item but purchased the patient 2 pair of jeans, 2 pair workout pants, 10 t-shirts, 7 pair of socks, 7 pairs of underwear, 2 each of body wash, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo and then a duffle bag for patient to be able to take it all with him when he's discharged. She then brought it to the patient and left it in the room without telling anyone. The only reason I knew who had done this wonderful act of kindness was because she asked the PCA if the things fit the patient. She was going to exchange them if they did not.

I believe this act of kindness truly demonstrates the extraordinary and compassionate care that the DAISY Award signifies. Amanda went above and beyond for a patient in need. The significant fact about all of this was Amanda had never been this patient's nurse. She just saw a need and stepped up.