July 2026 Honoree
Leanne Khaleel, RN
My story begins before I was admitted to Chandler Regional Medical Center. Earlier, I had been hospitalized at another Phoenix-area facility for sepsis. As a C7 quadriplegic, I cannot regulate my body temperature or sweat when I am cold. This can create a cycle of cold, wet blankets that leaves my bones chilled and makes it difficult for me to recover.
During that hospitalization, I spent two nights shivering so severely that my jaw hurt. Despite multiple nurses expressing concern to my nurse, my requests for a Bair Hugger warming device were denied because I was not considered a trauma or cardiac patient. I eventually had to bring my personal machine from home.
When I arrived at Chandler Regional, Leann Khaleel greeted me with a warm smile and reassuring words. She asked thorough questions about my medical history and medications, carefully reviewed my records, explained the requested referrals and plan of care, and asked what mattered most to me. After many hospital experiences in which I felt like everything was a struggle, Leann made me feel truly seen and heard.
When I asked about using my Bair Hugger, she immediately told me the hospital had one available in storage and arranged for me to use it. I was so relieved that I nearly cried.
After getting me settled, Leann asked whether I would like anything from the Starbucks downstairs because she was going there herself. She brought me a drink, which may seem like a small gesture, but it provided tremendous comfort. She helped me feel human, rather than simply a body being cared for during a shift. Leann was personable, thorough, patient, and kind when I needed those qualities most. She went above and beyond to understand my unique needs, advocate for my comfort, and provide compassionate care. I am deeply grateful for the difference she made in my hospital experience and believe she is exceptionally deserving of the DAISY Award.
During that hospitalization, I spent two nights shivering so severely that my jaw hurt. Despite multiple nurses expressing concern to my nurse, my requests for a Bair Hugger warming device were denied because I was not considered a trauma or cardiac patient. I eventually had to bring my personal machine from home.
When I arrived at Chandler Regional, Leann Khaleel greeted me with a warm smile and reassuring words. She asked thorough questions about my medical history and medications, carefully reviewed my records, explained the requested referrals and plan of care, and asked what mattered most to me. After many hospital experiences in which I felt like everything was a struggle, Leann made me feel truly seen and heard.
When I asked about using my Bair Hugger, she immediately told me the hospital had one available in storage and arranged for me to use it. I was so relieved that I nearly cried.
After getting me settled, Leann asked whether I would like anything from the Starbucks downstairs because she was going there herself. She brought me a drink, which may seem like a small gesture, but it provided tremendous comfort. She helped me feel human, rather than simply a body being cared for during a shift. Leann was personable, thorough, patient, and kind when I needed those qualities most. She went above and beyond to understand my unique needs, advocate for my comfort, and provide compassionate care. I am deeply grateful for the difference she made in my hospital experience and believe she is exceptionally deserving of the DAISY Award.
Thank you, Leanne, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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