February 2026
Sally G
Schliessman
,
BSN, RN
Emergency Department
Mayo Clinic in Florida
Jacksonville
,
FL
United States
Her attentiveness quite literally changed the course of my care.
During my visit to Mayo Clinic, I had the privilege of being cared for by an extraordinary nurse whose kindness, humility, and genuine concern made an overwhelming experience feel manageable. From the moment she walked in, she made me feel truly seen, heard, and cared for, not just like another patient in the ER, but a person navigating something vulnerable and frightening. We had forgotten to tell the initial doctor a crucial part of my medical history. This nurse gently prompted us when she asked what had been going on. Later, when the neurologist entered the room, she quietly popped her head in and whispered to my daughter to remember that symptom. That small moment ended up being vital to my diagnosis. Her attentiveness quite literally changed the course of my care. Beyond her clinical skill, she brought warmth, humor, and humanity into the room. She had us in stitches laughing and knew exactly how to keep things light when everything felt heavy. She checked on both my daughter and me in between doctors, making sure we were okay - physically and emotionally. She didn’t just care for me; she connected with us, bonded with us, and made us feel safe. Her compassion, understanding, and ability to relate to the vulnerability I felt as a patient went far beyond what anyone could expect. She reassured us that I would receive the highest quality care, and she lived up to that in every single interaction. We left wishing she could be our nurse always and everywhere. She truly made our Mayo experience incredible, and we believe with absolute certainty that she deserves the DAISY Award. We love you, Sally!