Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) Nurse, Kathy Freese, has been honored with the prestigious 2023 DAISY Award for her exceptional role as a nurse. Freese, who works in the medical/surgical department, emergency room, and Recovery Center, was recognized for her outstanding care and dedication to her patients. Numerous patients nominated Freese for the award, expressing their gratitude and admiration for her exceptional care. One patient described her as a “Godsend,” while another highlighted her kindness, smile, and genuine concern for patients’ well-being. The DAISY Award is an international recognition program that celebrates the compassionate and skillful care nurses provide. Honorees are acknowledged within their department, receive an award certificate, and are publicly recognized for their exceptional contributions. Freese was surprised with the award during a special ceremony on June 28th, attended by her co-workers and family. Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN, Chief Nursing Officer, says, “Kathy is an empathic nurse who always puts her patients at the center of her nursing practice. Thank you, Kathy, for taking extraordinary care of those we serve!” The family of J. Patrick Barnes established the DAISY Award to express gratitude to nurses after experiencing the compassionate care provided to Patrick during his illness. It has since become a widely recognized honor, with over 2,500 healthcare facilities worldwide participating. Nominations for the DAISY Award at MRHC are open to all nurses who exemplify the organization’s mission, values, and vision. Patients, family members, staff, physicians, visitors, and volunteers are encouraged to nominate nurses who demonstrate compassionate care and clinical excellence.
