Donald Fryling
May 2025
Donald
Fryling
,
RN
Benton Harbor VA Clinic
Battle Creek VA Medical Center
Battle Creek
,
MI
United States
He saw my brother as more than a chart or a case; he saw a veteran who deserved answers and care.
I am writing to nominate Donald Fryling, RN, at the Veterans Administration for The DAISY Award because of the exceptional care, dedication, and compassion he showed my brother during a challenging time in his life. Donald went far beyond his role as a nurse, and his efforts dramatically improved my brother’s quality of life when we needed it most. When my brother Paul was struggling with his mental health, his medications were not working as they should. Donald didn’t just treat this as a routine issue; he took the time to consult with my brother's psychologist to understand his needs more deeply. He advocated tirelessly to get his medications corrected, showing a level of care and persistence that gave us hope. His collaboration with the psychologist wasn’t just about doing his job; it was about truly seeing by brother as a person and fighting for what was best for him.
Later, when my brother had to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, Donald’s commitment didn’t stop. He recognized that something more might be at play and worked diligently to ensure my brother received a neuropsychiatric exam. That exam revealed my brother had a dementia diagnosis we hadn’t suspected. This discovery was a turning point for us. Once we understood his condition, Donald helped open the door to a range of new services and support that we didn’t even know were available. These resources have made an immense difference in my brother’s life, providing him with the care and assistance he needs to live more comfortably and safely. Donald’s actions reflect the kind of nurse who doesn’t just clock in and out, he invests in his patients and their families. He saw my brother as more than a chart or a case; he saw a veteran who deserved answers and care. His compassion, initiative, and dedication transformed a confusing and stressful situation into one where we finally felt supported and understood. For that, I am endlessly grateful. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of The DAISY Award than Donald Fryling. His extraordinary efforts not only helped my brother but also showed me what true nursing excellence looks like. Thank you for considering him for this honor. He’s a credit to the VA and to the nursing profession.
Later, when my brother had to be admitted to a psychiatric hospital, Donald’s commitment didn’t stop. He recognized that something more might be at play and worked diligently to ensure my brother received a neuropsychiatric exam. That exam revealed my brother had a dementia diagnosis we hadn’t suspected. This discovery was a turning point for us. Once we understood his condition, Donald helped open the door to a range of new services and support that we didn’t even know were available. These resources have made an immense difference in my brother’s life, providing him with the care and assistance he needs to live more comfortably and safely. Donald’s actions reflect the kind of nurse who doesn’t just clock in and out, he invests in his patients and their families. He saw my brother as more than a chart or a case; he saw a veteran who deserved answers and care. His compassion, initiative, and dedication transformed a confusing and stressful situation into one where we finally felt supported and understood. For that, I am endlessly grateful. I can’t think of anyone more deserving of The DAISY Award than Donald Fryling. His extraordinary efforts not only helped my brother but also showed me what true nursing excellence looks like. Thank you for considering him for this honor. He’s a credit to the VA and to the nursing profession.