July 2026 Honoree
Lenna Gnatyk, R.N.
I would like to recognize Lenna Gnatyk for a DAISY Award because she demonstrated the true meaning of the RICH TIES values through her clinical excellence, compassion, and unwavering advocacy for her patient.
During a recent shift, Lenna was caring for a patient who began showing subtle but concerning signs of deterioration. While the symptoms were not immediately obvious, Lenna trusted her clinical judgment and carefully reassessed the patient. She noticed changes that others might have missed and quickly recognized that the patient could be experiencing a gastrointestinal bleed.
Rather than dismissing the changes, Lenna acted with integrity and excellence. She escalated her concerns, communicated clearly with the care team, and ensured the patient received immediate evaluation. Because of her vigilance and decisive action, the patient was transferred to the ICU for a higher level of care. Her ability to recognize a critical situation and advocate for her patient demonstrated the highest level of professional nursing judgment and commitment to patient safety.
What made this moment even more meaningful was the compassion she showed during an incredibly frightening time. The patient and family were understandably anxious as the situation unfolded. Lenna remained calm and present, explaining what was happening and reassuring them every step of the way. At one point, she paused at the bedside, held the patient’s hand, and told them that she would make sure they received the care they needed. In that moment, her respect, empathy, and commitment to healing were deeply felt.
Lenna also exemplified teamwork and stewardship. She collaborated seamlessly with physicians, charge nurses, and ICU staff to ensure the transition of care was smooth and timely. Even while managing a busy workload, she never lost sight of what mattered most: her patient’s safety and well-being.
Because of Lenna’s attentiveness, courage to speak up, and dedication to doing what is right for her patient, a potentially life-threatening situation was recognized and addressed quickly. Her actions reflect the very heart of the RICH TIES values at Mayo Clinic: respect, integrity, compassion, healing, teamwork, and excellence.
Lenna did more than provide outstanding nursing care that day. She made the patient and their family feel safe during one of their most vulnerable moments. For that reason, she is truly deserving of the DAISY Award.
During a recent shift, Lenna was caring for a patient who began showing subtle but concerning signs of deterioration. While the symptoms were not immediately obvious, Lenna trusted her clinical judgment and carefully reassessed the patient. She noticed changes that others might have missed and quickly recognized that the patient could be experiencing a gastrointestinal bleed.
Rather than dismissing the changes, Lenna acted with integrity and excellence. She escalated her concerns, communicated clearly with the care team, and ensured the patient received immediate evaluation. Because of her vigilance and decisive action, the patient was transferred to the ICU for a higher level of care. Her ability to recognize a critical situation and advocate for her patient demonstrated the highest level of professional nursing judgment and commitment to patient safety.
What made this moment even more meaningful was the compassion she showed during an incredibly frightening time. The patient and family were understandably anxious as the situation unfolded. Lenna remained calm and present, explaining what was happening and reassuring them every step of the way. At one point, she paused at the bedside, held the patient’s hand, and told them that she would make sure they received the care they needed. In that moment, her respect, empathy, and commitment to healing were deeply felt.
Lenna also exemplified teamwork and stewardship. She collaborated seamlessly with physicians, charge nurses, and ICU staff to ensure the transition of care was smooth and timely. Even while managing a busy workload, she never lost sight of what mattered most: her patient’s safety and well-being.
Because of Lenna’s attentiveness, courage to speak up, and dedication to doing what is right for her patient, a potentially life-threatening situation was recognized and addressed quickly. Her actions reflect the very heart of the RICH TIES values at Mayo Clinic: respect, integrity, compassion, healing, teamwork, and excellence.
Lenna did more than provide outstanding nursing care that day. She made the patient and their family feel safe during one of their most vulnerable moments. For that reason, she is truly deserving of the DAISY Award.
Thank you, Lenna, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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