I nominate Cynthia Straebel, RN, as a deserving recipient of the DAISY Award. Cynthia exemplifies the kind of nurse that patients and families, as well as nurses, physicians and other members of the health team recognize as an outstanding role model.

The connection Cynthia provides is through her impact on our Emergency Department’s volunteer program. Cynthia recognizes that not only does she impact care at the bedside, but that it is also important that she extend her resources and appreciation of our patients through the volunteer program.

Cynthia created an orientation program specific to the care of the ER patient. She comes in on her days off to orient new volunteers and advocates for creating authentic relationships at the bedside. Which sometimes is as simple as just being there and sitting with patients to help them through difficult times.

Her dedication and passion for the program has been demonstrated through staff education on the importance of this program and the impact it has on our patients. Volunteers enjoy being here because of the success she has brought to this program.

Her personalized touch and dedication to the program demonstrates how important the program is to the overall patient care experience here at ABMC.

Heather Schroeder, ABMC ER Manager