It is truly an honor to stand here today and recognize one of our very own with the DAISY Award, an award that honors extraordinary nurses who go above and beyond in delivering compassionate, skillful care.

Today, we celebrate Mikayla, a nurse whose heart, presence, and dedication have left a lasting impression on a family during one of the most intimate and meaningful moments of their lives. Sometimes, it’s the quiet consistency, the steady hand, the reassuring voice, the unwavering attention that makes all the difference in a patient’s experience.

That’s exactly what Mikayla offered during this family’s labor and delivery journey. In the words of the patient’s husband: “On the baby board, it asked what is most important during my stay… it was comfort and care for my wife and baby. Mikayla was compassionate, kind, caring, and extremely informative. My wife was in labor for over 8 hours, yet I can count on one hand how many times Mikayla left the room. ”

Those few lines speak volumes. Mikayla didn’t just fulfill her duties—she stayed. She stayed physically, emotionally, and wholeheartedly present. Her patient and her patient’s family felt seen, supported, and safe because of her commitment. And even after the delivery, Mikayla came back to check in, to say hello to the new baby—a small gesture that left a big mark.

Mikayla, thank you for showing what it means to lead with heart. Thank you for making your patients feel not just cared for—but truly cared about. We are proud to have you here at University Health, and we are so grateful for the work you do.