June 2026 Honoree
Tessa Buckley, BSN, RN
Tessa Buckley exemplifies the very best of nursing through her extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, and unwavering commitment to patient-centered care. Multiple nominators described her as more than a nurse, she became a trusted advocate, source of comfort, and even a friend during some of their most vulnerable moments.
Patients and families consistently noted her ability to provide reassurance, answer questions with patience and kindness, and communicate difficult information with honesty and sensitivity.
During one patient's recovery from an emergency appendectomy, Tessa transformed a frightening experience into a manageable and hopeful journey. Her attentive listening, encouraging attitude, and genuine concern helped ease anxiety and build confidence throughout the healing process.
She consistently went above and beyond by anticipating needs, advocating for her patient's wishes, coordinating answers to complex questions, and ensuring comfort measures were addressed—even staying past the end of her shift when necessary. Her positive spirit, warm smile, and ability to bring moments of laughter during a difficult time left a lasting impact on the patient's recovery experience.
Another family shared how Tessa's kindness and loving approach made an unforgettable difference in the care of their husband and loved one. They described her as welcoming, deeply compassionate, and dedicated to every aspect of the care she provided.
Her genuine affection for her patients, expressed through kind words, personal connections, and heartfelt concern, created a sense of comfort and trust that extended to the entire family. They felt she truly went above and beyond and left a lasting positive impression on everyone she encountered.
Whether providing expert clinical care, advocating for patients, offering emotional support, or simply bringing a smile to someone's day, Tessa Buckley demonstrates the qualities of an exceptional DAISY nurse.
Her ability to make patients feel seen, heard, respected, and genuinely cared for reflects the profound difference she makes every day in the lives of those she serves. She embodies the compassion, excellence, and human connection that the DAISY Award was created to recognize.
Patients and families consistently noted her ability to provide reassurance, answer questions with patience and kindness, and communicate difficult information with honesty and sensitivity.
During one patient's recovery from an emergency appendectomy, Tessa transformed a frightening experience into a manageable and hopeful journey. Her attentive listening, encouraging attitude, and genuine concern helped ease anxiety and build confidence throughout the healing process.
She consistently went above and beyond by anticipating needs, advocating for her patient's wishes, coordinating answers to complex questions, and ensuring comfort measures were addressed—even staying past the end of her shift when necessary. Her positive spirit, warm smile, and ability to bring moments of laughter during a difficult time left a lasting impact on the patient's recovery experience.
Another family shared how Tessa's kindness and loving approach made an unforgettable difference in the care of their husband and loved one. They described her as welcoming, deeply compassionate, and dedicated to every aspect of the care she provided.
Her genuine affection for her patients, expressed through kind words, personal connections, and heartfelt concern, created a sense of comfort and trust that extended to the entire family. They felt she truly went above and beyond and left a lasting positive impression on everyone she encountered.
Whether providing expert clinical care, advocating for patients, offering emotional support, or simply bringing a smile to someone's day, Tessa Buckley demonstrates the qualities of an exceptional DAISY nurse.
Her ability to make patients feel seen, heard, respected, and genuinely cared for reflects the profound difference she makes every day in the lives of those she serves. She embodies the compassion, excellence, and human connection that the DAISY Award was created to recognize.
Thank you, Tessa, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
View More Honorees