Ally Schmalenberg, BSN, RN, CMSRN

Ally Schmalenberg exemplifies the compassion, dedication, and excellence in nursing that the DAISY Award recognizes. As an integral lead of our inpatient chemotherapy service, she has invested substantial time and effort into raising the bar for nursing practice and helping implement a safe, high-quality inpatient chemotherapy program. Her commitment to excellence is evident not only in the systems she has helped build but also in the extraordinary care she provides to each patient.

During the hospitalization of EH Fargo's first patient receiving an intensive AML induction (7+3) chemotherapy regimen, Ally went above and beyond to ensure both the patient's safety and emotional well-being. This complex treatment required strict neutropenic precautions, and Ally was meticulous in implementing and maintaining every aspect of these specialized infection prevention measures. Her attention to detail and unwavering commitment to patient safety gave the team confidence that the highest standards of care were being met.

What made Ally's care especially meaningful were the thoughtful, personal touches she brought to the patient's experience. Understanding that a prolonged hospitalization can be physically and emotionally challenging, she took the initiative to purchase snacks that met the patient's dietary restrictions and infection prevention requirements so he could safely enjoy familiar comforts. She also decorated his room for the Fourth of July using sterile, safe materials, creating a festive environment without compromising his care. These acts of kindness transformed a lengthy hospital stay into one that felt more personal, comforting, and supportive.

Ally has been instrumental in developing our inpatient chemotherapy practice by actively seeking knowledge and best practices from colleagues in other markets to strengthen and refine our processes in Fargo. She is never satisfied with the status quo, consistently identifying opportunities for improvement and advocating for changes that enhance patient safety and the quality of care. She works collaboratively with nursing and organizational leaders, persistently championing the implementation of evidence-based practices that have elevated our inpatient chemotherapy program and benefited both patients and staff.

Ally consistently demonstrates the very best of nursing through her clinical expertise, innovation, teamwork, and heartfelt compassion. She has made a lasting difference in the lives of her patients and has helped build a stronger, safer inpatient chemotherapy program. She is truly deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.