Jessica Smith
September 2025
Jessica J
Smith
,
ADN, RN
Med Surg Garden
Aurora Medical Center Mount Pleasant
Mount Pleasant
,
WI
United States

 

 

 

It wasn’t part of her duties—but it was part of who she is.
Jessica demonstrates extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, and dedication to her patients. My father was admitted to the hospital multiple times this year, and Jessica left a lasting impact on each of those occasions.

We first met her during his first admission. Although she wasn’t assigned to my father that day, she was assisting a coworker with his intake. Even in that brief interaction, Jessica stood out. She was warm, gentle, and attentive—making my father feel safe and seen during a very vulnerable time. Her willingness to step in and help, even when it wasn’t required, showed incredible teamwork and heart.

When we returned 2 other times, Jessica became my father’s primary nurse—and we couldn’t have been more grateful. She consistently went above and beyond, not just in meeting his clinical needs, but in treating him with the dignity and compassion every patient deserves. She ensured his pain was well-managed, explained every medication and procedure with patience, and spoke to him with kindness and respect. She never rushed and always made us feel like we mattered.

What moved us most was during his most recent readmission. Jessica wasn’t assigned to his care that day, but she still came by his room just to check in and see how he was doing. She asked why he had returned and expressed genuine concern for his well-being. That moment spoke volumes about her character. It wasn’t part of her duties—but it was part of who she is.

Jessica is the kind of nurse who truly embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award. Her care is not only clinically sound but deeply human. She connects with her patients in a way that brings comfort, hope, and trust. For families like ours, that kind of presence makes all the difference in the world. We will always be grateful for the role she played in my father’s care.

This is Jessica's 3rd DAISY Award!