There are nurses who care, and then there are those rare few whose compassion truly stands out. Denise is one of those Extraordinary Nurses —her kindness, patience, and dedication have touched the lives of so many, including my own family.

I’ve worked alongside Denise for over 10 years, and in all that time, her unwavering commitment to her patients has never changed. She treats each person with genuine warmth and respect, making even the hardest days a little easier. Her care goes beyond routine nursing tasks — she listens, comforts patiently, and consistently shows up with such a calm demeanor even on her busiest days at work. It’s no surprise that many patients and their families take the time to write letters and cards expressing their gratitude for the exceptional care she provides.

My appreciation for Denise became especially personal when she cared for my brother. In one of the hardest times of our lives, she made us feel at ease. She cared for my brother with such warmth, gentleness, and dignity. I will never forget how safe, seen, and supported she made us all feel, especially my parents, and I will forever be grateful to her for taking such wonderful care of him. 

Denise embodies the very spirit of the DAISY Award—compassion, humility, and selfless dedication. Whether it's a patient, a grieving family member, or a colleague in need, she gives her all without ever asking for anything in return. She goes above and beyond for everyone, and there is truly no one more deserving of this award.