Photos and article by Mary Alice Murphy
On October 21, 2026, in the courtyard of Gila Regional Medical Center, Chief Nursing Officer Ron Green presented the annual DAISY Award to the nurse chosen from among the nominations made by patients and family members.
"Today we honor Gila Regional's nurses, through the DAISY Award, a recognition of excellence, compassion, and dedication in mercy." Green said.
He gave some background on the DAISY Award. He noted it was established in 1999 by the Barnes family after the loss of their son Patrick, who had battled a serious autoimmune disease. Grounded by his illness, Patrick and his family experienced firsthand the remarkable impact nurses can have on the lives of patients and families. Inspired by compassion and clinical expertise, they witnessed, they, in turn, created the DAISY Foundation as a lasting way to recognize and honor nurses everywhere.
Green explained that what began with one family recognizing the service of nurses has become an international program that celebrates nurses whose skill, kindness, and dedication make a profound difference in the lives of others. As part of that recognition, DAISY honorees receive a meaningful symbol of an impact that they had on their patients and family. The DAISY Award recipient will receive the Healer's Touch sculpture. This is hand-carved by artists in Zimbabwe, and is a beautiful piece that represents the special connection between a nurse and a patient. The recipients will also receive a gift bag, and inside there is information about educational scholarships, professional development, and grants that support medical missions. These opportunities are part of the DAISY Foundation's ongoing commitment to recognizing, supporting, and investing in nursing excellence.
History of the award states that after Patrick's death his wife, Tena, came up with the name for the award, and the reason why the name is always in capital letters. It is an acronym that stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem.
Green said there were some great refreshments for after the naming of this year's winner. They include Patrick's favorite treat: cinnamon rolls. Sharing cinnamon rolls is a cherished DAISY tradition and a symbol of gratitude. They continue to be shared at DAISY celebrations around the world, as a reminder of the compassion, comfort, and exceptional care nurses provide every day.
"Here at Gila Regional Medical Center, we are proud to recognize our nurses and to take part in the DAISY Award," Green continued. "Every day, our nurses provide excellent, exceptional clinical care while offering reassurance, comfort, advocacy, and hope during some of life's most challenging moments. Their impact extends far beyond medical treatment and leaves a lasting impression on patients and families. As has been said, 'I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel,' and this is exactly what our nurses do."
This year, Gila Regional received 83 Daisy nominations, representing 44 individual nurses. Green said those numbers reflect something truly remarkable: "the deep appreciation our patients and families and and community members have for the care that they receive here at Gila Regional."
He asked all of this year's DAISY nominees who were present to stand and be recognized. "Thank you for your dedication, compassion, and commitment to the patients and families we serve. The nominations you see each year tell powerful stories. They remind us that nursing is not simply a profession, but a calling that touches lives in meaningful and lasting ways. Let me share just a few of the comments submitted by patients and families this past year."
One patient wrote, "Harmon shows patience with patients, families, new nurses, and just everyone." Another shared that "Elizabeth was calm, intentional, and focused in our interactions with me." "A patient praised Jeffrey, noting that his commitment to providing above-average care is evident in the way he explains lifestyle choices, and how they affect long-term health. Family members gave it. "What stood out most were the little things Catherine did. Throughout the visit, she listened patiently, answered our questions, and never made us feel rushed or like we were bothering her." Another family member wrote, "We will forever be grateful to Alicia, as we feel like she saved the patient's life."
"I could go on and on, but I'll just do one more," Green said. "Nikki, she is a heartbeat of humanity and mercy. I can't thank her enough for her care and concern."
He noted these stories reflect the extraordinary care, compassion, and professionalism demonstrated by Gila Regional nurses every day. "As I read through this year's nominations, I once again was reminded of the incredible differences our nurses make every day. Many of the stories were uplifting, some were emotional, and all of them reflected the exceptional work happening throughout our hospital. As the chief nursing officer, I am incredibly proud and deeply grateful for the care that we provide to our patients and our community."
"But among all the outstanding nominees, we had a hard choice," Green said. "We can only choose one. And it's my honor this year to announce the recipient of the 2026 DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurse to Nicole Foster. Nicole was nominated by multiple patients whose stories reflect the extraordinary care and compassion that the DAISY Award seeks to honor. We are blessed to have one of those patients with us today. Mrs. Carillo, thank you for taking the time to share your experience and for recognizing the impact that Nicole made during your visit. Your willingness to tell your story helps us celebrate the difference that our nurses make in the lives of their patients. So thank you for coming. Across every nomination that Nicole received a common theme emerged. Nicole exemplifies the best of nursing through her compassion and unwavering commitment to her patients. Patients described Nicole as calm and reassuring during some of their most difficult moments. They spoke of her positive attitude, attentive care, and ability to create a sense of comfort during the times of fear, pain, and uncertainty. They noted how she took the time to explain medications and treatments in a way that helped them feel informed, confident, and supported. One nomination highlighted Nicole's need to go above and beyond expectations, ensuring that the patient felt heard and cared for. Another described Nicole as someone they trusted and saw her as a compassionate caregiver and a steadfast advocate. Nicole, your professionalism, energy, empathy, and dedication leave a lasting impression on everyone you meet. Your compassion and excellence you bring to your work each day embodies the very spirit of the DAISY Award, making this recognition so well deserved."
Green concluded saying: "I'd like to express my sincere gratitude to all the nurses at Gila Regional for their dedication, compassion, expertise in serving our community. Please congratulate Nicole and recognize all of our Daisy nominees for their extraordinary contributions. Thank you again for coming. Please grab some refreshments, including cinnamon rolls, which honor Patrick as well."
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