June 2026 Honoree

Stephanie Laing, MSN, RN, CPEN

  • Nicklaus Children's Hospital
  • Miami
    ,
    FL
    ,
    United States
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Nurse Stephanie deserves The DAISY Award because she has changed what is typically a stressful and overwhelming experience into one filled with comfort, understanding, and compassion for my son and our entire family.

My son is on the autism spectrum and is nonverbal. Because of this, any time something feels off with his health, we often find ourselves at urgent care in Palm Beach Gardens. For many families, a visit like this may be routine—but for us, it can be incredibly challenging.

The waiting room is especially difficult. My son struggles to sit and wait, and when he becomes overwhelmed, he vocalizes loudly. It’s his way of communicating, but it can draw attention and add to an already stressful situation.

But everything changes when Nurse Stephanie is there. She knows my son—not just his name, but him. She recognizes him by his sounds alone. On multiple occasions, before we’ve even had the chance to check in or explain anything, she has heard him from the waiting area and come out to get him right away. That level of awareness, attentiveness, and compassion is something I cannot put into words—it brings instant relief and comfort to both my son and me.

Stephanie meets him with patience, warmth, and genuine kindness every single time. She never rushes him, never judges, and never makes us feel like we are “too much.” Instead, she makes my son feel safe in an environment that would otherwise be overwhelming.

Because of her, something that used to cause anxiety now brings my son comfort. He walks in happy, knowing she will be there. As a parent of a child with special needs, those moments are everything.

Nurse Stephanie is more than just a nurse—she is a lifeline for families like ours. She sees beyond the diagnosis and treats my son with dignity, love, and respect. Her ability to connect with him, without words, is truly extraordinary.

She has changed our experience in ways that go far beyond medical care. She has given us peace of mind, a sense of belonging, and a place where my son is understood.

For our family, she is not just amazing—she is a life changer. She deserves this award open heartedly.

Thank you, Stephanie, for your exceptional compassion, advocacy, and dedication to your patients. You truly make a difference.

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