Megan Ruden
May 2026
Megan
Ruden
,
RN
Surgery
Iowa Specialty Hospitals and Clinics
Clarion
,
IA
United States
That level of compassion cannot be taught; it comes from the heart.
I would like to recognize Nurse Megan for the exceptional care, compassion, and dedication she showed during my mother’s recent emergency hospitalization for appendicitis. From the moment Megan entered my mother’s room, it was clear she was more than just a nurse doing her job; she was a steady, calming presence during a very frightening and uncertain time.
Emergency surgery is overwhelming not only for the patient but for the family as well, and Megan consistently went above and beyond to ensure that my mother felt safe, heard, and cared for every step of the way. Megan took the time to explain procedures clearly, answer questions thoroughly, and check in frequently, not because she had to, but because she genuinely cared. She showed remarkable patience, empathy, and kindness, even during what I know was a busy and demanding shift.
Her attentiveness never wavered, and she treated my mother with dignity, respect, and compassion at a moment when it mattered most. What stood out the most was Megan’s ability to combine clinical excellence with true human connection. She didn’t just care for my mother’s medical needs; she cared for her as a person. That level of compassion cannot be taught; it comes from the heart.
Megan’s presence made an incredibly stressful situation feel manageable, and for that, our family will always be grateful. Because of Megan, my mother’s experience during an emergency surgery was filled with reassurance instead of fear. She is the kind of nurse who represents the very best of the profession and embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for.
Thank you for taking the time to recognize extraordinary nurses like Megan. She made a lasting difference in our lives, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor.
Emergency surgery is overwhelming not only for the patient but for the family as well, and Megan consistently went above and beyond to ensure that my mother felt safe, heard, and cared for every step of the way. Megan took the time to explain procedures clearly, answer questions thoroughly, and check in frequently, not because she had to, but because she genuinely cared. She showed remarkable patience, empathy, and kindness, even during what I know was a busy and demanding shift.
Her attentiveness never wavered, and she treated my mother with dignity, respect, and compassion at a moment when it mattered most. What stood out the most was Megan’s ability to combine clinical excellence with true human connection. She didn’t just care for my mother’s medical needs; she cared for her as a person. That level of compassion cannot be taught; it comes from the heart.
Megan’s presence made an incredibly stressful situation feel manageable, and for that, our family will always be grateful. Because of Megan, my mother’s experience during an emergency surgery was filled with reassurance instead of fear. She is the kind of nurse who represents the very best of the profession and embodies everything the DAISY Award stands for.
Thank you for taking the time to recognize extraordinary nurses like Megan. She made a lasting difference in our lives, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this honor.