Lindsey Yeaton was nominated for the DAISY Award in December 2011 as a result of a patient letter that was sent to the VP/CNOE of Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego. Below is an excerpt for the letter received:

“On September 2, 2011 I had coronary artery bypass surgery in your hospital. I was admitted on August
31st and was treated with so much respect and kindness I was surprised. Your entire staff deserves a "Bravo", everyone was wonderful! However, I wanted you to recognize three nurses that were outstanding in my recovery during my stay.

I remember little directly after the surgery but have fond memories of several moments. First thing I remember when I woke up was having a breathing tube in and I wanted it out. Then I heard the most soothing and calming voice ever saying that the tube would come out in just a few minutes. I might have panicked if not for the kind voice of Lindsey Yeaton. Her voice was very reassuring that everything would be fine. Just the sound of her voice calmed me down and I believed what she told me, which
helped me stay relaxed with that breathing tube in my throat. I woke again and Lindsey told me again that it would be a few minutes more. So, I calmed down, again. Next thing I remember the tube was out and I was thirsty. I asked and Lindsey gave me water, and then ice chips. Later, she offered me some Jell-0 and fed me some orange flavored. All this time I was thinking how wonderful this nurse is being. Her voice held nothing but love for what she was doing for me.

I remember waking up from time to time and Lindsey would offer pain medication. I was told prior by all the staff and doctors that I should accept the pain medication so that the level of pain did not get out of hand. So, about every hour or so Lindsey would offer more and I accepted. During my entire stay my pain was never more than a 2-3, for which I am grateful.

After a while I remember waking up and just looking around. Seeing Lindsey through a gap in the curtain sitting just outside, she was diligently keeping an eye on me. I felt that I didn't want her to see that I was awake because then she would have to get up and attend to my needs, because I didn't have any needs at that time. I didn't want to disturb her. She had worked so hard keeping me comfortable.

She was so pleasant to talk to; she was so nice, I could not have asked for a better nurse. I felt very fortunate that Lindsey was there for me. When her shift had come to the end I recall Lindsey was very thorough with the handoff to the next nurse. Explaining my condition and what had transpired throughout the night she was earful that the next shift was well informed. Her thoroughness made me feel that I would continue to receive great care.

Maybe what Lindsey did for me was nothing more than what she does for all her patients. Whether that's the case or not she made me feel very special, comfortable and that I was no problem to her at all. She was just what I needed in an ICU nurse. I hope she is recognized for her outstanding service to me. I think she must treat all her patients as well as she treated me. Bravo Lindsey Yeaton!”