August 2026 Honoree
Kiera Elyard, RN
I had the privilege of seeing Kiera’s exceptional nursing care firsthand when my father was involved in a serious e-bike accident while on vacation. As a registered nurse and trauma ER nurse myself, I understand the skill, compassion, and dedication required to provide outstanding patient care. Kiera exemplified all of these qualities and more.
My father sustained significant injuries to his face, back, side, and hands. During an incredibly stressful and emotional time for our family, Kiera consistently demonstrated professionalism, empathy, and genuine compassion. She kept me informed throughout his care, ensuring I understood what was happening every step of the way. Her communication was clear, thoughtful, and reassuring, which meant so much to me as both a daughter and a fellow healthcare professional.
What stood out most was the way Kiera cared not only for my father, but for our entire family. Before my mother arrived, Kiera thoughtfully covered my father’s wounds because she was concerned about how upsetting it might be for her to see the extent of his injuries. It was such a simple yet profound act of compassion that reflected her ability to see and care for the whole family, not just the patient.
Even after being transferred from Lakeland to another hospital, my father’s strongest memory of his experience is the exceptional care he received from Kiera. Despite everything he endured, he repeatedly spoke about how kind, attentive, and caring she was. That says more about the impact of her nursing than any words I could write.
Kiera’s empathy was evident in every interaction. She provided comfort during a frightening situation, advocated for her patient, and delivered care with both clinical excellence and heartfelt compassion.
As a former DAISY Award recipient myself, I know that the nurses we recognize are those who leave a lasting impression through extraordinary acts of kindness and dedication. Kiera is exactly that kind of nurse.
Thank you, Kiera, for the incredible care you provided to my father and for embodying the very best of the nursing profession. You are truly deserving of a DAISY Award.
My father is doing well and recovering nicely.
My father sustained significant injuries to his face, back, side, and hands. During an incredibly stressful and emotional time for our family, Kiera consistently demonstrated professionalism, empathy, and genuine compassion. She kept me informed throughout his care, ensuring I understood what was happening every step of the way. Her communication was clear, thoughtful, and reassuring, which meant so much to me as both a daughter and a fellow healthcare professional.
What stood out most was the way Kiera cared not only for my father, but for our entire family. Before my mother arrived, Kiera thoughtfully covered my father’s wounds because she was concerned about how upsetting it might be for her to see the extent of his injuries. It was such a simple yet profound act of compassion that reflected her ability to see and care for the whole family, not just the patient.
Even after being transferred from Lakeland to another hospital, my father’s strongest memory of his experience is the exceptional care he received from Kiera. Despite everything he endured, he repeatedly spoke about how kind, attentive, and caring she was. That says more about the impact of her nursing than any words I could write.
Kiera’s empathy was evident in every interaction. She provided comfort during a frightening situation, advocated for her patient, and delivered care with both clinical excellence and heartfelt compassion.
As a former DAISY Award recipient myself, I know that the nurses we recognize are those who leave a lasting impression through extraordinary acts of kindness and dedication. Kiera is exactly that kind of nurse.
Thank you, Kiera, for the incredible care you provided to my father and for embodying the very best of the nursing profession. You are truly deserving of a DAISY Award.
My father is doing well and recovering nicely.
Thank you, Kiera, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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