I’m nominating Shawnee for the DAISY Award for the incredible compassion, thoughtfulness, and dedication she showed to one of our patients in the inpatient stabilization unit. When Shawnee learned the patient would be spending her birthday in the hospital and was feeling upset about missing out on a celebration, she didn’t just offer sympathy—she took action. She ordered a Walmart delivery with party treats and even brought cheesecake for breakfast, doing everything in her power to make the day special.

Even as the situation became increasingly difficult and a Code Green was eventually called, Shawnee never gave up on the patient. She continued to approach the situation with patience, grace, and genuine care—doing her best to de-escalate and connect with the patient throughout. Her efforts were extraordinary and truly demonstrated what it means to be a nurse who leads with both heart and skill. Shawnee is an exceptional nurse whose commitment to her patients is unwavering, and her actions that day reflect the very spirit of the DAISY Award.