Newsworthy

During their grandfather’s hospital stay, one family noticed Lillian managing a demanding patient assignment. What stood out most, however, wasn’t how busy she was, but how present she remained.

She answered questions, listened without rushing, offered comfort, and helped the family navigate an important care concern. Throughout the day, they watched her bring that same patience and attention to every patient she cared for.

That ability to remain steady, kind, and focused during difficult moments is why we’re proud to recognize Lillian as our latest DAISY Award recipient.

Lillian’s Nomination

Editor’s note: This nomination has been lightly edited for clarity and patient privacy.

RN Lillian was exceptional during this stay. I have a durable power of attorney for my grandparents, and the day I interacted with Lillian, her tech had called in or maybe she didn’t have one assigned. She was doing the work herself for the hall of patients she had. I only noticed because I work in healthcare and quickly picked up on the fact she was the only person caring for her patients. You wouldn’t be able to tell she had a heavy load, and she never grumbled or complained. When my grandparents mentioned how hard she was working and how tired she must be, she always responded with how much she loves what she does.

Lillian was so knowledgeable, kind, and attentive. She never rushed my grandfather. She took time to joke with him, hold his hand, and listen to him. She answered the endless questions my grandmother asked. She was very diligent and always on top of things, with a genuine demeanor.

My grandfather’s code status was changed in a doctor’s note, and I wasn’t made aware of the change. I only noticed when looking in MyChart. My grandfather had long-standing documentation in his chart of signed DNR orders. My grandfather didn’t remember communicating this change, and my grandparents were very concerned and wanted to make sure things were corrected before his procedure the following day.

I brought my concern to Lillian, and she immediately, calmly, and in a caring manner pulled her focus to my concern. She put in an order for someone to come and talk with my grandparents to clarify their wishes and helped us clear up the code-status situation. She was so kind and really demonstrated effective therapeutic communication. We never once felt like a burden or “work” for her.

The door to my grandfather’s room had been open most of the day (as he preferred), and we witnessed Lillian be this exceptional to all of her patients as she went in to interact and care for them.

I can’t say enough how fortunate we feel to have had Lillian as a nurse for my grandfather. This has been a tough week, with his heath decline and the realization that time is precious. Having someone care so exceptionally for my grandfather, the man who walked me down the aisle and taught me to walk, when I can’t be there all the time has been such a gift.

My hope is that Lillian’s love for what she does is infectious. Being someone’s comfort during this fragile time is a gift. Not all people can do it so gracefully, but Lillian does it so well, with genuine empathy and passion. We are so grateful for her. Words will never be able to express the gratitude for the care she provided!