Katie Koehnemann
April 2026
Katie
Koehnemann
,
BSN, RN
Highland Park Hospital- Endeavor
Highland Park
,
IL
United States
She didn’t just perform tasks; she connected with me as a person. She recognized the emotional weight of what I had experienced and consistently provided encouragement and calm reassurance.
I am honored to nominate Katie for a DAISY Award in recognition of the exceptional care she provided during my postpartum recovery. My delivery was unexpectedly traumatic. I was unable to receive an epidural and ultimately required an emergency trip to the OR due to a significant postpartum hemorrhage and excessive blood loss. Physically and emotionally, I was overwhelmed. This was my second delivery in under two years, and the experience was drastically different from my first, making it especially difficult to process.
 
Katie cared for me post-operatively and throughout several days of my postpartum stay. From the very beginning, she demonstrated extraordinary compassion, clinical expertise, and genuine presence. She approached every interaction with kindness, patience, and reassurance. She took the time to explain what was happening, answered my questions thoroughly, and ensured I felt safe and supported during a very vulnerable time. What stood out most was the way Katie combined professionalism with heartfelt empathy. She didn’t just perform tasks; she connected with me as a person. She recognized the emotional weight of what I had experienced and consistently provided encouragement and calm reassurance. Her thoughtful approach to every touchpoint of my care significantly improved my recovery experience.

Because of Katie, what could have remained an overwhelmingly traumatic memory was softened by the compassion and excellence she brought to my bedside. She truly embodies the spirit of nursing and the values the DAISY Award represents. Katie absolutely deserves this recognition for going above and beyond in her care.

I am deeply grateful for the difference she made during one of the most challenging moments of my life.