Nurses every day go above and beyond to not only provide patients and families with excellence in clinical care but also compassion. At The DAISY Foundation, we aim to honor them by showing our profound gratitude for all that they do.

The DAISY Award is a recognition program to celebrate and recognize nurses by collecting nominations from patients, families, and co-workers. It is run by our partners as a way to thank nurses for the care and kindness they provide.

What is the DAISY Foundation?

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died from complications of the autoimmune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of 33. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.

What is the DAISY Award?

The DAISY Award® is a special honor given to extraordinary nurses for the compassionate contributions they make every day going above and beyond expectations in science and sensitivity.

Learn more about the DAISY Award by clicking here.

Nor-Lea Hospital District DAISY Award Honoree

Leah Grajiola, Lovington Medical Clinic, Extended Hours Clinic

“Since starting at Nor-Lea I have been a registration clerk for Dr. Maldonado’s team and I have had the pleasure of working with this nurse. Although she’s not bedside, she does the absolute most for the patients here at Extended Hours Clinic. When I have a patient come in with any questions she does not hesitate to come out to the lobby as soon as possible and help every patient with a smile on her face. For example, a patient comes in weekly to get help with organizing all his medications, and she happily assists, simply out the kindness of her heart. She makes working for this team joyful. She’s always positive, creating activities, wearing matching shirts and showing appreciation to us all. Whenever I submit any telephone calls for patients who need help, she gets to them the same day even with her busy schedule. She was made to be a nurse, and I am so proud to work with her. There are times when patients come in and need help, and I do not understand them and she comes out and knows exactly how to help them. This nurse is so deserving of the Daisy Award.”

Nor-Lea Hospital District DAISY Award Nominees

Rosalba Urbina, Nor-Lea Cancer Center

“I would like to nominate Rosie for her exceptional care. She was incredibly kind and attentive. When I expressed my concerns about the side effects of anesthesia, she took the time to listen and ensured that my needs were accommodated and spoke with the anesthesiologist to arrange for medication prior to my procedure. Her compassion and respect made a significant difference in my experience, and I would choose her as my nurse for any future procedures.”

“Rosie is very kind and caring, she is truly a blessing. She is so sweet; I actually named my puppy after her. The whole staff treated me with respect and explained what to expect. Thanks to the entire staff at Nor Lea, Lovington NM.”

Denise Hafer, Pain Management

“She was really great and put my IV in smoothly. Everyone was very nice and caring. Dr. A Sharma was the best.”

Brianna Copeland, Nor-Lea Cancer Center

“This nurse always made me feel very special and cared for. She was very comforting, and my day seemed to go by more quickly with her guidance and kindness. I was so much calmer when I knew she would be there each time for me and help me get through those horrible days. I’m not sure I could’ve gotten through the treatments without her beautiful smile to get me through.”

Kristabelle Leyva, Emergency Room

“I’m so happy I could cry. The nurse and the doctor that worked on me were so beautiful inside and out. They did their job with grace and cared! They got my asthma in control right away and actually did tests. I haven’t had anyone treat me as good as this team, I’m so happy, I feel like God sent the right nurse and right doctor for me. I love them! They have hearts of gold I can’t stress this enough. This nurse needs to be rewarded! God sent the nurse and team that got me back to breathing normally again and took the time to care, evaluate and run tests and be, they will forever leave a mark on me!”

Jaqueline Rendon, Emergency Room

“Jaqueline served as my assigned nurse on my recent visit to the ER with severe muscle cramps where my femoral artery stint was placed. I came in afraid I was having a cardiac event like an occluded stint and the doctor arrived swiftly to order tests and blood work. He left me in the nurse's care while we waited for the results. She was very kind, efficient, patient and knowledgeable about my needs and questions that arose during my visit. She worked diligently to move the slow process forward but always with care for my wellbeing. My own daughter has been a nurse for 21 years and I have an extensive medical history with my own family members and have served as their advocate and caregiver. Huge praise to Jaqueline for her professional demeanor showing calm, caring efficient nursing skills at just 5 months in as a nurse. I was shocked that she wasn’t a seasoned veteran. When the results came back that I was experiencing muscles spasms due to dehydration from being ill in the days prior to my ER visit, I was relieved. She and the whole team worked diligently to instill confidence and care during my entire visit.”

“I was in the ER for a possible heart attack, this nurse provided great care, she shared pictures of her Yorkie and I did the same.”

Luke Schroepfer, Emergency Room

“This nurse was very nice, very helpful and caring. He explained everything very well and made my hospital visit less stressful. Thank you for the awesome service. I love Nor-Lea Hospital District in Lovington NM.”