Congratulations to our 2025 April Daisy Honoree, Sharon Gardner, RN/Procedural Testing!

Congratulations to our April 2025 DAISY Award honoree, Sharon Gardner, RN/Procedural Testing!

Sharon’s nomination read: “I am honored to nominate Sharon for the Riverside Hospital Daisy Award in recognition of her outstanding patient care, unwavering commitment to safety, and the deeply compassionate connection she formed with my mother following her angioplasty on Monday, April 7th. From the moment Sharon entered my mother’s room, her calming presence, quiet confidence, and kind demeanor immediately earned our trust. She brought not only professionalism but also a sense of comfort that made a world of difference during a difficult time. No matter how challenging the day became, Sharon remained attentive, present, and deeply respectful, consistently going above and beyond to ensure my mother felt heard, safe, and valued. Sharon delivered care with the perfect balance of clinical skill and heartfelt compassion. She treated my mother not just as a patient, but as a person-with dignity, tenderness, and patience. Every task from administering medications to adjusting her position after she vomited, was done with care and intention. She also took the time to explain each step patiently answering my many questions and helping us understand what to expect next. One moment that especially stood out was when my mother, who had become very anxious, agitated, was crying. Sharon’s response never wavered she continued with her steady, gentle approach, using simple conversation, active listening, and her consistent presence to build trust. Slowly, my mother began to relax and respond, allowing care and becoming more at ease. This was a turning point, and it was entirely due to Sharon’s unwavering compassion and determination to see the person behind the symptoms. Beyond clinical care, Sharon connected with my mom on a personal level-asking about her hobbies and encouraging her to talk about our pets. As a patient advocate, Sharon ensured that the care plan truly reflected my mother’s needs. That level of dedication is rare, and it left a lasting impression on our entire family. It is with deep gratitude that I nominate Sharon for this well-deserved recognition. She truly embodies everything the Daisy Award represents. Her care made a meaningful difference during a very stressful time, and we are grateful for her compassion and professionalism.”

Congratulations to the March 2025 DAISY Award winner, Kristin Siefert, RN/Emergency Service!

Kristin’s nomination read: “We had a young mother present to the Emergency Department with her newborn and toddler seeking mental health services. She did not have a support system and had no safe place to bring the children in order for her to seek treatment so she brought them with her. Kristin helped watch over the children while their mother was a patient. At one point the toddler had a diaper blow out and Kristin happened to be in the splash zone. She cleaned up the toddler the best she could with what the ED had available as the children were not brought with adequate childcare supplies. Kristin took her lunch break much earlier than normal to go home and change her own clothes that were
soiled from the toddler. She then proceeded to go to Walmart and buy the children clothes and toys and other care items, before returning from her ‘lunch break’. Through the entire time Kristin remained concerned for the mother’s wellbeing, getting support upon discharge, and reunification with her children. Kristin has one of the biggest hearts of any person I have ever met. She gives with all she has and to the upmost of her abilities. It was a sight this past December to see fun-sized Kristin push all her piles of wrapped Christmas presents through our break room door, presents purchased for our department’s Christmas family in need. Kristin’s caring and giving nature is palpable and radiates throughout the department when she is working. She is most definitely a Daisy nurse and truly deserves every bit of recognition for all that she does for our patients and community.”