A co-worker shared that, following a recent hospitalization for a cardiac event, they returned to work and started conducting their morning routine of checking building systems and temperatures throughout the facility. As they entered the elevator they were greeted by Dee Dee Bebris, upon greeting Dee Dee, she immediately voiced concern and asked if her co-worker was feeling ok as they appeared extremely pale and she was very concerned. Dee Dee escorted her co-worker to an area to check their blood pressure, within minutes additional staff entered the room and the Medical Emergency Response Team (MERT) was paged overhead, ultimately resulting in her co-worker being transferred from the VA to a community hospital.

Dee Dee’s actions that day characterize the essence of true patient care! My deepest gratitude and thanks to Dee Dee Beris for her professionalism, experience, dedication, and genuine personal concern. As an employee and Veteran, I am honored to submit this DAISY Award for excellence in nursing and care!