Ann Driscoll, lead RN in the infusion room has contributed to the oncology service greatly over her tenure here at the VA. More importantly, she has supported thousands of Veterans through their cancer journey, making small talk with them when they needed a lighter conversation, teaching them and their families about their medications and treatment plans, demonstrating unwavering compassion and empathy with every Veteran and family member, and supporting the Veteran and their family during the end of their life's journey. Ann ensures every Veteran and their family is provided the utmost dignity and respect. She makes them feel like they are her only patients and takes the necessary time with each of them. She considers all the small things and makes their time during their treatments meaningful. Ann easily establishes a rapport and trust with her patients, gaining their trust early in the relationship. Ann builds relationships with the Veterans and their families, knowing this is an important part of their journey. She has conversations with them and learns about them and their families.

She has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving all Veterans and their families and making sure they have the absolute best care. She is a role model for patient advocacy and an expert in her field, holding the nationally recognized certification, the Gold Standard in Oncology Nursing. She collaborates with the providers to ensure Veterans have everything they need to get through the tougher parts of their treatment plan. Ann does so many other things behind the scenes to ensure patients get the best care. So many Veterans have high praise for Ann and are ambivalent about her retirement; they are happy for her to be at that time in her life to step back and care for herself, but sad she will not be part of their remaining journey.

Ann has high expectations and strives for excellence in everything she touches. She taught the chemotherapy class for years and is training staff to deepen the bench for the infusion room before she retires. Ann values "team" and values sharing her expertise and knowledge with others; essentially growing newer to practice nurses. Ann has a calm, pleasant, and cheerful disposition, setting everyone at ease and setting the tone for the infusion room and the patients being cared for there. She is a warm and genuine person!

Ann's expertise, commitment to excellence, and kindheartedness will be greatly missed by staff and Veterans! This exemplary RN at the Syracuse VA is a shining example of what the DAISY Award represents.