July 2026 Honoree
Shaelee O'Reilly, RN
It is impossible to adequately put into words just how extraordinary Shae is, both as a nurse and as a human being. It was an absolute privilege to have her by our side throughout the birth of our daughter, and I truly cannot imagine our experience without her.
From the moment we arrived for what became a long and physically and emotionally exhausting induction, Shae brought a sense of calm, warmth, and reassurance that immediately made us feel safe. We even crossed paths with her in the parking lot before checking in, where she offered kind words and encouragement—a small moment that perfectly reflected the compassionate person she is.
Over the course of multiple days, Shae became so much more than our labor nurse. During the hardest moments of labor, she never left us feeling alone. She offered unwavering support, encouragement, and positivity through every setback and every victory.
When it came time to deliver our daughter, Shae held my leg, coached me through each push, celebrated every bit of progress, and made me feel stronger than I thought possible. Her confidence in me gave me confidence in myself.
After my daughter was born, Shae's care never stopped. As a first-time mom filled with anxiety and countless questions, I was overwhelmed by the unknowns of parenthood. Yet Shae met every fear with patience, kindness, and reassurance.
She helped me navigate breastfeeding challenges, encouraged me when I doubted myself, assisted me with my first shower after delivery, answered every question—no matter how small—and consistently checked on not only my physical well-being, but also my emotional well-being. She cared for our baby, our room, and our family with incredible attention and compassion.
What stood out most was that Shae never made any of this feel like just another shift or routine task. She made us feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for. Even after she was no longer assigned to us, she would stop by whenever she had a chance just to check in.
On a day she wasn't even scheduled in our section, she made a point to come say hello and visit my baby. Those moments meant the world to us and showed that her compassion extends far beyond the requirements of her job.
I know much of what Shae does may feel like second nature to her, but to our family, her impact was immeasurable. She transformed what could have been an overwhelming and frightening experience into one filled with confidence, comfort, and joy.
Because of Shae, I felt supported not only as a patient, but as a new mother. She exemplifies everything nursing should be—skill, compassion, advocacy, encouragement, and genuine love for the people entrusted to her care.
If there is anyone who embodies the spirit and purpose of the DAISY Award, it is Shae. We will never forget her, and we will forever be grateful that she was part of the story of our daughter's birth.
From the moment we arrived for what became a long and physically and emotionally exhausting induction, Shae brought a sense of calm, warmth, and reassurance that immediately made us feel safe. We even crossed paths with her in the parking lot before checking in, where she offered kind words and encouragement—a small moment that perfectly reflected the compassionate person she is.
Over the course of multiple days, Shae became so much more than our labor nurse. During the hardest moments of labor, she never left us feeling alone. She offered unwavering support, encouragement, and positivity through every setback and every victory.
When it came time to deliver our daughter, Shae held my leg, coached me through each push, celebrated every bit of progress, and made me feel stronger than I thought possible. Her confidence in me gave me confidence in myself.
After my daughter was born, Shae's care never stopped. As a first-time mom filled with anxiety and countless questions, I was overwhelmed by the unknowns of parenthood. Yet Shae met every fear with patience, kindness, and reassurance.
She helped me navigate breastfeeding challenges, encouraged me when I doubted myself, assisted me with my first shower after delivery, answered every question—no matter how small—and consistently checked on not only my physical well-being, but also my emotional well-being. She cared for our baby, our room, and our family with incredible attention and compassion.
What stood out most was that Shae never made any of this feel like just another shift or routine task. She made us feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for. Even after she was no longer assigned to us, she would stop by whenever she had a chance just to check in.
On a day she wasn't even scheduled in our section, she made a point to come say hello and visit my baby. Those moments meant the world to us and showed that her compassion extends far beyond the requirements of her job.
I know much of what Shae does may feel like second nature to her, but to our family, her impact was immeasurable. She transformed what could have been an overwhelming and frightening experience into one filled with confidence, comfort, and joy.
Because of Shae, I felt supported not only as a patient, but as a new mother. She exemplifies everything nursing should be—skill, compassion, advocacy, encouragement, and genuine love for the people entrusted to her care.
If there is anyone who embodies the spirit and purpose of the DAISY Award, it is Shae. We will never forget her, and we will forever be grateful that she was part of the story of our daughter's birth.
Thank you, Shaelee, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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