Sheila Mendoza has been serving in the healthcare field since 1997. Her career began as a Health Information Specialist at Rady Children's Hospital, then Radiology Representative at Sharp Rees-Stealy. In 2005, Sheila relocated to the Philippines to pursue a career in nursing, where she graduated with a baccalaureate degree in nursing from Lyceum-Northwestern University.

Sheila returned to San Diego, launching her career as a Registered Nurse at Balboa Nursing and Rehabilitation Facility. In July 2009, she became one of the elite nurses on the Surgical Acute floors at Scripps Mercy Hospital San Diego. From the onset, Sheila has been an exemplar of Scripps Mercy's vision of compassion. Her positive attitude and bright smile light illuminate the hearts of those around her. She inspires her colleagues to give their best to patients consistently, even in the most stressful of situations.

The DAISY award is given to Sheila today because she consistently receives positive feedback from patients who appreciate her smile and gentle nature. Her presence helps patients feel safe and supported.

One patient's grateful family member nominated Sheila for the DAISY Award. In their words, "Sheila showed compassion and was very helpful while my dad was recovering. Dad had a difficult time after surgery. Sheila was able to calm him down and put him at ease. She took the time to explain everything she was going to do (give medications, changing IVs, obtaining vital signs). She was reassuring and listened to his needs. Sheila is an asset to Scripps Mercy Hospital and to the nursing community."