This past weekend, my son was seen at Bronson for croup. From the moment we arrived, Nurse McKenzie McDaniel was the sweetest and most caring nurse I have ever encountered at Bronson. She immediately connected with my son. She was friendly, silly, and playful in a way that tapped into his personality and helped him feel comfortable during what could have been a very scary visit for him.

In the rush to leave the house, we forgot to bring diapers. Without hesitation, McKenzie brought us some, so we did not have to stress or leave the room. She also showed such thoughtfulness in the way she gave him his medication. She mixed it in a sippy cup of juice, so he did not even realize he was taking it. That one simple act spared him and us unnecessary fear and tears.

McKenzie’s kindness, attention to detail, and ability to meet a child right where they are emotionally made such a difference in our experience. She turned an anxious situation into a calm and reassuring one. I am deeply grateful for the way she cared for my son and for us as parents. She is exactly the kind of nurse the DAISY Award is meant to recognize.