Bonnie and Mark were retired, growing wine grapes in Sonoma, when Mark’s son Patrick developed the auto-immune disease ITP in late 1999. Upon Patrick’s death following an 8 week illness, they established The DAISY Foundation in gratitude for the nurses’ care they and Patrick’s wife Tena experienced when he was in the hospital. Bonnie and Mark were especially touched by the compassion with which Patrick’s nurses cared for him and their family. So they created The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses to provide meaningful recognition to compassionate nurses like those who cared for their family. Today, The DAISY Award is celebrated in over 5,000 healthcare facilities and nursing schools internationally. DAISY’s impact is well-documented, contributing to a healthy work environment, nurse engagement, and the patient/family experience. Bonnie and Mark are passionate about honoring nurses throughout the year, no matter where they practice, no matter where they are in careers.