Aubrey Hefner
May 2025
Aubrey
Hefner
,
BSN, RN, RNC-NIC
Clinical Resource Unit
Advocate Children's Hospital-Oak Lawn
Oak Lawn
,
IL
United States
Without hesitation, Aubrey volunteered to float to a unit she wasn’t trained in, and she did this on both Saturday and Sunday, so that I could have the time I desperately needed to rest and heal.
I would like to nominate Aubrey for the DAISY Award because she truly embodies everything a nurse should be—not just in how she cares for her patients, but in how she cares for her peers as well. In the aftermath of a deeply personal family emergency, I found myself emotionally and physically drained. Without hesitation, Aubrey volunteered to float to a unit she wasn’t trained in, and she did this on both Saturday and Sunday, so that I could have the time I desperately needed to rest and heal. She didn't do this for recognition or praise; she did it out of the goodness of her heart and the deep empathy she has for others.
Aubrey demonstrates lifelong, integrated care of the mind, body, and spirit—not just for the diverse pediatric and neonatal populations we serve, but also within our work family. She helps others gain the strength and confidence to manage their own wellbeing, always leading by example. Aubrey is someone who doesn’t just show up—she shows up for you. She is present, intentional, and compassionate.
She is a fierce advocate and voice for both her patients and her peers. Whether it's ensuring a patient receives top-notch, excellent care or defending the dignity and autonomy of those she works with, Aubrey consistently stands up for what is right. She educates with grace, supports with strength, and represents the very best of nursing.
Aubrey also exemplifies open communication and mutual respect. She fosters a work environment where collaboration thrives and shared decision-making leads to the best outcomes. Her contributions to unit morale and wellness are deeply impactful. To know Aubrey is to feel seen, supported, and cared for. She builds relationships grounded in respect and trust, strengthening not just our team but our entire community. Her empathy and ability to be fully present with others promote healing on a level that cannot be taught—it comes from within.
Aubrey is truly a bright light on a gloomy day. She will be your wingman when you need someone in your corner and your advocate when you don’t have the words. Our hospital is incredibly lucky to have someone like her on our team. Aubrey doesn’t just practice nursing—she lives it, and everyone she touches is better for it.
Aubrey demonstrates lifelong, integrated care of the mind, body, and spirit—not just for the diverse pediatric and neonatal populations we serve, but also within our work family. She helps others gain the strength and confidence to manage their own wellbeing, always leading by example. Aubrey is someone who doesn’t just show up—she shows up for you. She is present, intentional, and compassionate.
She is a fierce advocate and voice for both her patients and her peers. Whether it's ensuring a patient receives top-notch, excellent care or defending the dignity and autonomy of those she works with, Aubrey consistently stands up for what is right. She educates with grace, supports with strength, and represents the very best of nursing.
Aubrey also exemplifies open communication and mutual respect. She fosters a work environment where collaboration thrives and shared decision-making leads to the best outcomes. Her contributions to unit morale and wellness are deeply impactful. To know Aubrey is to feel seen, supported, and cared for. She builds relationships grounded in respect and trust, strengthening not just our team but our entire community. Her empathy and ability to be fully present with others promote healing on a level that cannot be taught—it comes from within.
Aubrey is truly a bright light on a gloomy day. She will be your wingman when you need someone in your corner and your advocate when you don’t have the words. Our hospital is incredibly lucky to have someone like her on our team. Aubrey doesn’t just practice nursing—she lives it, and everyone she touches is better for it.