Samuel Brazell
June 2026
Samuel
Brazell
,
RN
UAMS Health
Little Rock
,
AR
United States
He brought the patient a complete set of new clothing: a shirt, jeans, a belt, underwear, socks, and a pair of black shoes. The impact was immediate—the patient’s demeanor softened, and his gratitude was evident
I would like to nominate Samuel Brazell for a DAISY Award in recognition of his extraordinary compassion and commitment to patient care. On the night shift of April 20, 2026, we admitted a homeless patient to room F703. He arrived wearing heavily soiled clothing and shoes that were no longer usable. Without hesitation, Sam ensured the patient’s immediate comfort by providing clean hospital socks and a gown.
More importantly, he made a promise to the patient that he would return with proper clothing. This patient was understandably guarded and not particularly expressive. However, when Sam returned for his next shift, he fulfilled that promise. He brought the patient a complete set of new clothing: a shirt, jeans, a belt, underwear, socks, and a pair of black shoes. The impact was immediate—the patient’s demeanor softened, and his gratitude was evident. At discharge, the patient spoke with pride about his new belongings, emphasizing that he would cherish them and wear them for as long as possible.
What may have seemed like a small act to others was, to this patient, a profound gesture of dignity and humanity. Sam’s actions are a powerful reminder that nursing extends far beyond clinical responsibilities. It is about seeing the whole person and responding with empathy, respect, and kindness. He exemplifies the true spirit of nursing by caring not only for the body, but also for the heart and soul.
As Maya Angelou so beautifully said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Sam made this patient feel seen, valued, and cared for—and that is why he is so deserving of this recognition.
More importantly, he made a promise to the patient that he would return with proper clothing. This patient was understandably guarded and not particularly expressive. However, when Sam returned for his next shift, he fulfilled that promise. He brought the patient a complete set of new clothing: a shirt, jeans, a belt, underwear, socks, and a pair of black shoes. The impact was immediate—the patient’s demeanor softened, and his gratitude was evident. At discharge, the patient spoke with pride about his new belongings, emphasizing that he would cherish them and wear them for as long as possible.
What may have seemed like a small act to others was, to this patient, a profound gesture of dignity and humanity. Sam’s actions are a powerful reminder that nursing extends far beyond clinical responsibilities. It is about seeing the whole person and responding with empathy, respect, and kindness. He exemplifies the true spirit of nursing by caring not only for the body, but also for the heart and soul.
As Maya Angelou so beautifully said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Sam made this patient feel seen, valued, and cared for—and that is why he is so deserving of this recognition.