We would like to nominate Pam Ridder for the DAISY Award. She is an outstanding nurse and clinician. She always puts her patients first, anticipating their needs and going out of her way to meet them. Pam’s sincerity and dedication can be seen through the care she provides each day. She takes the extra time with her patients and families to listen, talk and build relationships. When performing daily rounds, we have witnessed her going into a patient room, sitting down and talking with the families at length. Pam never gives the impression that she has another task to complete or place to be, but rather that she has all the time in the world to listen and make the family feel heard.

An example of extraordinary care that she has demonstrated was when a 1 year old patient was admitted to the floor with a bowel obstruction. The family could rarely be at the bedside. While inpatient for over 1 month Pam took the opportunity to be in the room, holding her, playing with her an ensuring she felt comforted and loved. Pam made time for this little girl, each and everyday regardless if she was assigned to her or not. A bond was quickly formed between them. Without doubt, Pam played a vital role in this child’s recovery. It is this level of care and nurses like Pam that make Children’s Hospital and Medical Center an extraordinary hospital.