Jeffery Paysour provided exceptional support during a challenging situation. We had a terminally ill patient whose final wish was to marry his partner. Because the patient was too ill to travel to the Register of Deeds to complete the necessary legal documentation, I immediately reached out to Jeff. Without hesitation, Jeff contacted the Register of Deeds, who then came personally to the hospital so the couple could be married. The patient passed away three days later, peacefully, and as a married man. This would not have been possible without Jeff’s compassion, advocacy, and swift action.

Jeff’s deep connections within the community are well known; he is consistently involved in supporting youth (the Boys & Girls Club), individuals experiencing homelessness, and has created an emergency response team within a local church (PERT). Acts like these are characteristic of who Jeff is. He continually goes above and beyond for both the community and the staff within our hospital.

Each year, he quietly coordinates holiday meals for employees who may be unable to afford a large family gathering. He is a vital voice on our Culture Council and plays a key role in organizing staff participation in the Hospital Emergency Response Team (HERT). He also coordinates the Life Share Events to honor the families of those patients who have donated their organs. Jeff is the person we turn to when we are unsure of the next step. Those of us who work at Atrium Lincoln each have a story about how he supported us.

One example that stands out is when a patient arrived with a snake. Despite Jeff’s deep fear of snakes, he came to the Telemetry unit, assessed the situation, and respectfully asked the family to take the animal home. Demonstrating both courage and professionalism. Jeff embodies the spirit of compassionate leadership. His commitment, integrity, and unwavering support make him an outstanding candidate for the DAISY Nurse Leader Award.