This year’s DAISY Award winners are Megan Schuttler, Kelly Lee, and Renee Bronzynski, who were each recognized for going above and beyond to provide comfort, kindness, and exceptional support to patients and families during difficult moments.

Schuttler was honored for the compassionate care she provided to a patient who arrived at the emergency room alone during a challenging day. She immediately began providing attentive and thoughtful care, ensuring the patient received all necessary tests and treatments. When the patient was too weak to walk to the pharmacy, Schuttler personally picked up the prescriptions to make sure they received the medications they needed. On a cold, windy day, she also started the patient’s car from the lobby and safely wheeled them out to it before discharge. The patient shared that Megan made a stressful and isolating experience much easier and described her kindness and attentiveness as truly remarkable.

Lee and Bronzynski were recognized for the exceptional care they provided to a patient facing severe pneumonia and a complex transfer to another hospital. The patient’s family expressed heartfelt gratitude for the attentiveness, gentleness, and emotional support the nurses provided during an overwhelming and frightening time. As the family prepared for the difficult transfer, they shared that they were crying and terrified, but Lee and Bronzynski continued to care for their loved one with patience, skill, and unwavering compassion. The family described them as amazing staff members who made a profound difference in their experience.

Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics also recognized Dawn Parkins as a DAISY Award nominee for the compassion and emotional support she provided to a patient and family during a stressful medical situation. Parkins took time to stop and speak with the family while their loved one struggled with severe breathing difficulties related to a complicated medical history. Through reassurance, conversation, and a heartfelt offer to pray with the family, she brought comfort during a deeply emotional moment. The family described her gesture as beautiful and meaningful and praised her compassion and kindness.

“The DAISY Award recognizes nurses who make a lasting impact through both clinical excellence and compassionate care,” said Ann Lengeling, chief nursing officer at Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics. “Megan, Kelly, Renee, and Dawn exemplify the compassion, dedication, and patient-centered care that define nursing at Stewart Memorial. We are incredibly proud of the difference they make in the lives of our patients and families every day.”

The DAISY Award is an international recognition program that honors and celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide to patients and families each day. Stewart Memorial Hospital and Clinics is honored to have these exceptional nurses as part of its team and congratulates them on their well-deserved recognition.