In reflecting on those words, Milton added: “Patients are always at the center of what we do, and this award reflects this philosophy. Nurses are humble people who join this profession because of their love of caring for people. I am glad we have this recognition, because they would never ask for it themselves.”
Spearheaded locally by Rebecca Wood, a nurse and clinical educator in STHS’s Education Department, the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is an international recognition program that was brought to St. Tammany Health System last year.
“This award is so special to me because many years ago I received it, so when I was given the opportunity in my current role to bring the program to St. Tammany Health System, I was glad to bring it here and make it happen,” Rebecca said.
The award program was founded in 1999 by the family of Patrick J. Barnes to honor his memory and to give patients a way to express their gratitude for nurses. It is a way to honor and celebrate the skillful, compassionate care our nurses provide every day. The acronym stands for “Diseases Attacking the Immune System.”
The goal of the award is to provide ways to help honorees advance their nursing careers, further develop their practice and expertise, and nourish their well-being through continuing education scholarships, wellness subscription discounts and reduced rates on certain certifications.
Among other things, all recipients receive a one-of-a-kind stone sculpture crafted in Zimbabwe called the Healer's Touch Sculpture.
Funding for the Daisy Award honoree wall was provided by generous donors from St. Tammany Hospital Foundation.
Anyone can nominate a nurse by filling out either an online or paper form found at sttammany.health/thank you.