May 2026
Christie
Zoucha
,
RN
14A Surgical Care
Loma Linda University Medical Center
Loma Linda
,
CA
United States
It was clear that Christie had reached her in a way only a truly compassionate nurse can.
I would like to nominate Christie Zoucha for the DAISY Award for the extraordinary compassion, selflessness, and humanity she brings to her nursing practice.
Christie has been providing ongoing care for one of our critically ill patients who requires extensive, time-consuming, and emotionally demanding care. In situations like this, it can be easy to do only what is required to get through the shift. Christie never does that; she consistently goes above and beyond, giving not only her time and skills, but her heart. Through her patience, presence, and genuine concern, she has formed a deep bond with both the patient and the patient’s daughter—one built on trust, comfort, and unwavering support.
Recently, this patient experienced an especially difficult night. She was exhausted, discouraged, and had lost her motivation. She refused to eat and did not want to take her medications. While speaking with Christie on the phone and explaining the situation, Christie immediately stepped in without hesitation. She voluntarily spoke to the patient over the speaker phone simply because she cared.
As Christie spoke, I could physically see a change in the patient. The discouragement faded, and the light returned to her eyes. Christie’s voice, encouragement, and genuine connection gave the patient something no medication could—hope. After their conversation, the patient agreed to take her medications and eat. It was clear that Christie had reached her in a way only a truly compassionate nurse can.
I cannot think of another nurse who would take time out of their day off to lift up a struggling patient simply because it was the right thing to do. This moment speaks volumes about Christie’s character. Her kindness is instinctive, her compassion is authentic, and her dedication to her patients goes far beyond the walls of the hospital.
Christie Zoucha exemplifies the very spirit of nursing. She does not just care for patients; she sees them, believes in them, and helps them find the strength to keep going. She is profoundly deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.
Christie has been providing ongoing care for one of our critically ill patients who requires extensive, time-consuming, and emotionally demanding care. In situations like this, it can be easy to do only what is required to get through the shift. Christie never does that; she consistently goes above and beyond, giving not only her time and skills, but her heart. Through her patience, presence, and genuine concern, she has formed a deep bond with both the patient and the patient’s daughter—one built on trust, comfort, and unwavering support.
Recently, this patient experienced an especially difficult night. She was exhausted, discouraged, and had lost her motivation. She refused to eat and did not want to take her medications. While speaking with Christie on the phone and explaining the situation, Christie immediately stepped in without hesitation. She voluntarily spoke to the patient over the speaker phone simply because she cared.
As Christie spoke, I could physically see a change in the patient. The discouragement faded, and the light returned to her eyes. Christie’s voice, encouragement, and genuine connection gave the patient something no medication could—hope. After their conversation, the patient agreed to take her medications and eat. It was clear that Christie had reached her in a way only a truly compassionate nurse can.
I cannot think of another nurse who would take time out of their day off to lift up a struggling patient simply because it was the right thing to do. This moment speaks volumes about Christie’s character. Her kindness is instinctive, her compassion is authentic, and her dedication to her patients goes far beyond the walls of the hospital.
Christie Zoucha exemplifies the very spirit of nursing. She does not just care for patients; she sees them, believes in them, and helps them find the strength to keep going. She is profoundly deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.