September 2026 Honoree
Matthew McKinley, BSN, RN
Matt showed extraordinary compassion, professionalism, and excellence he demonstrated during one of the most difficult moments my family has ever experienced. Although Matt was not my grandfather’s primary nurse, he immediately responded when my grandfather’s condition changed, and we hit the call light. He seamlessly stepped in to assist the team, remained calm, composed, and focused while helping expedite the care my grandfather urgently needed. His clinical professionalism was evident, but what truly distinguished him was the compassion he extended to our family.
As the team prepared to intubate my grandfather, I stood watching in fear, realizing his condition had significantly worsened. In that overwhelming moment, I looked across the room and saw Matt quietly mouth the words, “It will be okay.” While he could not change the circumstances, that simple gesture provided immeasurable comfort and reminded me that someone saw our fear and cared enough to acknowledge it. It is a moment I will never forget.
As my cousin and I waited anxiously in the hallway, Matt continued to demonstrate exceptional kindness. Even though he was not assigned to my grandfather’s care, he intentionally checked on us, offered reassurance, and took the time to provide updates to our family on two separate occasions before the end of his shift. He had no obligation to do so, yet he chose to ensure we felt informed, supported, and cared for during an incredibly uncertain time.
Nurses often leave lasting impressions not only through their clinical expertise, but through their humanity. Matt exemplified both. He treated our family with dignity, empathy, and genuine compassion during one of the most vulnerable experiences. His willingness to go above and beyond his assigned responsibilities reflects the very essence of nursing and the values the DAISY Award seeks to recognize.
As the team prepared to intubate my grandfather, I stood watching in fear, realizing his condition had significantly worsened. In that overwhelming moment, I looked across the room and saw Matt quietly mouth the words, “It will be okay.” While he could not change the circumstances, that simple gesture provided immeasurable comfort and reminded me that someone saw our fear and cared enough to acknowledge it. It is a moment I will never forget.
As my cousin and I waited anxiously in the hallway, Matt continued to demonstrate exceptional kindness. Even though he was not assigned to my grandfather’s care, he intentionally checked on us, offered reassurance, and took the time to provide updates to our family on two separate occasions before the end of his shift. He had no obligation to do so, yet he chose to ensure we felt informed, supported, and cared for during an incredibly uncertain time.
Nurses often leave lasting impressions not only through their clinical expertise, but through their humanity. Matt exemplified both. He treated our family with dignity, empathy, and genuine compassion during one of the most vulnerable experiences. His willingness to go above and beyond his assigned responsibilities reflects the very essence of nursing and the values the DAISY Award seeks to recognize.
Thank you, Matthew, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.
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