Twice a year LincolnHealth recognizes a nurse who has made a difference in the lives of their patients. A nurse who patients remember their kindness, care, and or skill. A nurse who leaves an indelible mark on the lives they care for. The winter DAISY winner for LincolnHealth is Rachel Dodge.

Rachel’s nominations shared insight into her care, her attention to the biggest and smallest of details, and how her presence helped them through trying times. One patient shares: “Rachel did a fantastic job caring for me, she recognized I wasn’t feeling well and immediately assisted me back to bed before I passed out. I really appreciated her help in that moment of crisis”

We all know retired nurses are the biggest critics of care, a family shared how their mother, a retired nurse, came into the hospital with a pelvis and shoulder fracture: “Rachel is highly competent, experienced, and has superior nursing skills. More unique is she is all about the patient, treating my mother with care and respect. She is a beautiful person inside and out. A role model for all nurses today. I am so grateful to her, you are truly gifted and talented.”

Finally, a patient shared how Rachel anticipated all the needs during a period of time when the patient was violently ill: “She never left my side, keeping me as comfortable as possible. I felt like she was my guardian angel. At one point she was so concerned about my condition, she said a little prayer asking for some divine intervention. Nurses who make a difference never think they do anything special, however, it is those who often make the biggest impact on patients.”

Rachel, as you accept this award, please take a moment to reflect on the path you have chosen and the many patients whom you have cared for. Your impact both large and small on those and the many more you will come in contact with is immeasurable. We are so very fortunate to have you on our team. The real winners here are your patients!