Christy displays a type of professionalism that is super rare.  Her tireless motivation and tough-mindedness display true leadership for the hospital staff, and she inspires others to be their best.  Her commitment to our core values (and her focus on improving things for everyone) makes her a true DAISY Nurse Leader.

Working as the administrative leader during overnight, weekend shifts – she is presented with countless challenges that are demanding and unique.   At a time when staffing levels are low and patient acuity is high, her efforts always help to boost morale and build team cohesion.  Christy is a problem-solver.  She truly makes a difference, and her impact on the hospital (and the people in it) is, as the form describes, extraordinary.  It would be difficult to nominate Christy based on a single story or encounter.  Instead, I will mention several:

I see Christy constantly jumping in to help our staff – with anything and everything, no matter how small or how large the task.  She is always willing to lend a hand, and if necessary – take the lead.  As an outside observer, I’ve witnessed her spring into action during medical emergencies.  It is clear that her leadership and skill set are assets to the hospital.

I’ve seen Christy provide comfort and support to a visitor who had lost his spouse to cancer.  She has a gift for communicating with respect and compassion.  I’ve seen her hold a grieving mother in her arms - after the woman collapsed upon learning that her son fell victim to gun violence.  I’ve seen Christy hold and rock a crying baby to sleep when its mother (at her wits’ end) needed a break to step out and collect her thoughts.

I’ve seen Christy mediate between feuding family members involved in a dispute while visiting a patient.  She was able to navigate their personal differences and hostility, and lead both sides to a place of mutual respect.  I’ve seen her work this magic with families (and staff members) throughout the hospital.  She is exceptionally skilled at resolving conflict.

I’ve seen Christy develop rapport with countless patients suffering from severe mental health issues. Her willingness and ability to calm and comfort patients in times of crisis are extraordinary. I’ve seen her work alongside Police Officers and nursing staff to manage dangerous and uncontrollable patients. The hospital is a safer place because of her dedication and experience.

I’ve seen Christy calm a crowd of angry visitors in the Emergency Waiting Area.  With limited space, long wait-times, and patients suffering from a range of issues - tensions are often high after check-in.  Hostility in the waiting area is a regular occurrence at our hospital, and Christy is always great at diffusing situations.
I see Christy as an advocate—not only for patients and their families but also for the hospital staff and its ancillary teams. She is honest and fair, and her integrity is obvious to all who know (or work with) her.

As a Police Officer, I am routinely dispatched to assist with a range of critical incidents, stressful encounters, and problems to solve.  When Christy is working, I take comfort in the fact that she will find a way to help (and probably teach me something along the way).  I know the medical staff feel the same.  When she is not working, her absence is felt throughout the hospital.

I see Christy being a friend and teacher to everyone who works at the hospital… and I see her willing to listen and learn things herself.  She is a true leader.
These are only a few of the things that come to mind.  I can’t begin to describe all of the ways that she makes the hospital a better place.  Christy does all of these things, leading from the trenches in an often stressful environment… without losing her positivity or professionalism.  IU Health West is lucky to have her.  I would love to see her recognized for her efforts.