February 2026
Kirza A
Hall
,
RN
Emergency Dept
Cox Medical Center Branson
Branson
,
MO
United States
This affirmation and advocacy went far beyond the standard of care and will have a lasting impact.
We would like to nominate Kirza for the DAISY Award in recognition of her extraordinary compassion, advocacy, and commitment to patient-centered care. We had the pleasure of receiving care from Kirza during one of the most difficult experiences a family can face — seeking medical support for domestic violence during pregnancy. From the start, Kirza recognized the gravity of the situation and provided us with an immediate sense of relief. Throughout the emergency department visit, she provided attentive, trauma-informed care and created a sense of safety during a deeply unsettling and vulnerable time. Her presence alone conveyed reassurance, protection, and trust. What truly distinguishes Kirza’s care, however, occurred after we had already been discharged. Without prompting, she identified that critical discharge education related to non-fatal strangulation and intimate partner violence risk had not been fully provided. On her own initiative, she reached out after discharge to ensure our daughter received the education, resources, and support she deserved. That call came at a pivotal moment. Our daughter was experiencing emotional conflict and self-blame — a common and dangerous aftermath of intimate partner violence. Kirza provided clear, evidence-based education about the heightened risks associated with strangulation and, just as importantly, reinforced our daughter’s inherent worth, dignity, and right to safety. This affirmation and advocacy went far beyond the standard of care and will have a lasting impact. What stands out most is that Kirza continued to advocate for our daughter well beyond the point of discharge. She ensured our daughter was supported not only medically, but also emotionally and psychologically. To Kirza, my daughter wasn't just a chart but a person deserving of human connection. The fact that she was still thinking about her patient hours later speaks volumes about her character and dedication. With Missouri having one of the highest maternal homicide rates, according to recent studies, Kirza’s actions could not be more crucial. Her vigilance, education, and unwavering advocacy reflect the kind of care that truly saves lives.