In an emotional ceremony in the waiting area just outside one of the intensive care units at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, the family of Taylor Delk recently accepted a DAISY Award in his honor. Taylor, a devoted critical care nurse who died unexpectedly in July, became the first Phoebe nurse to receive the prestigious award posthumously.

“He loved his family, and he loved his patients,” Taylor’s widow, Heather, said. She, the couple’s young sons, Taylor’s parents, and other loved ones were joined at the ceremony by a large group of critical care team members who loved and respected Taylor. “His job meant everything. He was the best nurse and caretaker. I just wish he was here to accept it (the DAISY Award). It would have meant the world to him,” Heather said. Taylor decided to focus on the care of critically ill cardiac patients after one of his sons was diagnosed with a cardiac condition, and he was known for his relentless work ethic and uncommon compassion for his patients. Taylor’s wife said each patient was important to him, and he treated them all as if they were his own family. “He loved to help people and serve people, but he talked about how hard it was because so many people who get to the point where they need intensive care don’t make it. He would cry about it when he would lose a patient. He loved his job,” Heather said.

“Taylor will always be the example of how to be a professional, friendly, intelligent, and empathetic provider in the ICU,” wrote one physician in his DAISY Award nomination for Taylor. “Taylor’s legacy will live on within each of us as we continue to care for our patients. All others should strive for the excellence that Taylor delivered every day,” he added. 25 of Taylor’s co-workers submitted DAISY Award nominations after his passing.