Chelsey L Birman
August 2025
Chelsey L
Birman
,
RN
6S
Corewell Health West: Butterworth, Blodgett and Helen DeVos Children's Hospital
Grand Rapids
,
MI
United States
She anticipated his needs before he could even voice them.
During my uncle’s recent hospital stay, we were fortunate to have Nurse Chelsey as one of his primary caregivers, and I can say without hesitation that her presence made an immeasurable difference during a very difficult time. From the moment she entered his room, Chelsey brought not only clinical skill but also a deep sense of compassion and humanity. My uncle, who was admitted in critical condition with end-stage heart failure, was anxious, disoriented, and physically exhausted. Chelsey immediately established trust with him, her calm demeanor, gentle voice, and reassuring words helped ease his fear and allowed him to finally rest.
What stood out most was her attentiveness and intuition. She anticipated his needs before he could even voice them. When he struggled with appetite loss, Chelsey offered small but nourishing meal options and took the time to sit with him and encourage each bite. When he was in pain or discomfort, she responded quickly, never making him feel like a burden. Even routine tasks like medication administration or blood draws were done with care and clear communication, always preserving his dignity.
There was one evening in particular when my uncle’s symptoms worsened, and Chelsey noticed subtle changes in his behavior that others might have missed. She acted swiftly, coordinated with the care team, and made sure his symptoms were managed before they escalated. Her vigilance may very well have prevented a serious complication. But perhaps what we appreciated most was how she cared for the entire family. She patiently answered our questions, explained procedures in a way we could understand, and checked in on us just as she did my uncle.
Her empathy extended beyond the clinical, to the emotional and human side of caregiving that often goes unspoken but is never forgotten. Chelsey embodies everything the DAISY Award represents. She is not only an exceptional nurse but also a beacon of hope, grace, and compassion. My family and I will forever be grateful for her role in my uncle’s care, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor.
What stood out most was her attentiveness and intuition. She anticipated his needs before he could even voice them. When he struggled with appetite loss, Chelsey offered small but nourishing meal options and took the time to sit with him and encourage each bite. When he was in pain or discomfort, she responded quickly, never making him feel like a burden. Even routine tasks like medication administration or blood draws were done with care and clear communication, always preserving his dignity.
There was one evening in particular when my uncle’s symptoms worsened, and Chelsey noticed subtle changes in his behavior that others might have missed. She acted swiftly, coordinated with the care team, and made sure his symptoms were managed before they escalated. Her vigilance may very well have prevented a serious complication. But perhaps what we appreciated most was how she cared for the entire family. She patiently answered our questions, explained procedures in a way we could understand, and checked in on us just as she did my uncle.
Her empathy extended beyond the clinical, to the emotional and human side of caregiving that often goes unspoken but is never forgotten. Chelsey embodies everything the DAISY Award represents. She is not only an exceptional nurse but also a beacon of hope, grace, and compassion. My family and I will forever be grateful for her role in my uncle’s care, and I can think of no one more deserving of this honor.