July 2026 Honoree
Lilly Jokinen, RN
My mother-in-law was hospitalized with pneumonia. This was her fourth hospitalization for the same condition. We requested placement on EHD 5th floor because during her previous admission there, she consistently received exceptional care. This time, Lilly was assigned as her nurse.
After leaving for the evening, I spent much of the night worrying about how my mother-in-law was doing. She is a stroke survivor with severe receptive and expressive aphasia. Communication can be very challenging for her, and she often becomes frustrated and upset when others do not understand what she is trying to express.
When I returned the following morning, Lilly was in her room with her. I immediately felt a sense of relief. My mother-in-law had been groomed, was comfortable eating breakfast, and her room was clean and organized. Most importantly, Lilly had taken the time to connect with her. She was incredibly kind, patient, and compassionate, working through the communication barriers created by her aphasia until she fully understood her needs.
Lilly also took the time to address my questions and concerns, which meant a great deal to me as a family member. She went above and beyond by taking my mother-in-law for a walk around the unit, helping to ease her restlessness and improve her comfort. She thoughtfully managed her nutritional needs, ensuring her meals and Ensure supplements were ordered and available.
The care Lilly provided not only met my mother-in-law's physical needs but also preserved her dignity and emotional well-being. Seeing compassion, patience and dedication Lilly demonstrated put my mind at ease and allowed me to feel confident that my mother-in-law was receiving exceptional care.
Lilly truly exemplifies what it means to be an extraordinary nurse. Her commitment to treating patients with kindness, respect, and compassion makes her highly deserving of the DAISY Award.
After leaving for the evening, I spent much of the night worrying about how my mother-in-law was doing. She is a stroke survivor with severe receptive and expressive aphasia. Communication can be very challenging for her, and she often becomes frustrated and upset when others do not understand what she is trying to express.
When I returned the following morning, Lilly was in her room with her. I immediately felt a sense of relief. My mother-in-law had been groomed, was comfortable eating breakfast, and her room was clean and organized. Most importantly, Lilly had taken the time to connect with her. She was incredibly kind, patient, and compassionate, working through the communication barriers created by her aphasia until she fully understood her needs.
Lilly also took the time to address my questions and concerns, which meant a great deal to me as a family member. She went above and beyond by taking my mother-in-law for a walk around the unit, helping to ease her restlessness and improve her comfort. She thoughtfully managed her nutritional needs, ensuring her meals and Ensure supplements were ordered and available.
The care Lilly provided not only met my mother-in-law's physical needs but also preserved her dignity and emotional well-being. Seeing compassion, patience and dedication Lilly demonstrated put my mind at ease and allowed me to feel confident that my mother-in-law was receiving exceptional care.
Lilly truly exemplifies what it means to be an extraordinary nurse. Her commitment to treating patients with kindness, respect, and compassion makes her highly deserving of the DAISY Award.
Thank you, Lilly, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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