An overview of the DAISY Award celebration that we were able to be a part of.
On Thursday morning we were up earlier than normal to head to the hospital. Josiah was happy to be going; he never is once we get there, but he sure likes to go. Our other kids joined us as well.
We left with a promise to Josiah that no one would poke, listen to, or make him do anything. I did tell him that we’d want to take his picture though. From the sound of his “no!”, I think he may have preferred an IV poke.
We went first to the main lobby of the hospital where there was a lady waiting for us. She had a cart with a banner, gifts and cinnamon rolls to take to the PICU for the DAISY Award celebration. The kids played in the play area while we waited for everyone to arrive. We took turns introducing ourselves and sharing Josiah’s story.
While visiting, we heard that the award was going to be a complete surprise to everyone. Kathy was already working in the PICU and scheduled. Renae was told that there was a class she needed to attend. Kristen was scheduled to work in the PICU that day, but had switched days with another nurse that needed another day off. Because of the last minute change in schedules, Kristen was told that she needed to come in for a meeting at 9:00. Because it was time sensitive and not a flexible “meeting,” she was told that the meeting was with her superior and that was the only time available in the schedule, which could not be changed. As the lady was telling us this, she said, “She’s actually sitting down there in the office by herself waiting…” I can only imagine what was going through her mind!
Once everyone had arrived, including the media team and photographer, we all walked to the PICU together. Josiah didn’t cry when he saw the doors like we had expected, but as we walked down the hall he grabbed Nathan’s face, looked at him and said “I’m ready to go home.”
It was a nice ceremony in the hallway of the PICU. The nurses who saw us just thought we were there to stop by and visit, as we try to do occasionally. They were each equally surprised; which I think is just awesome…because I LOVE surprises!
When we were all gathered, the awards were handed out individually to Renae, Kristen, and Kathy with a certificate, a DAISY Award pin, and a hand carved sculpture entitled A Healer’s Touch. This was the first time three nurses have been awarded at the same time.
Then the nomination was read aloud so everyone could hear why these lovely nurses were nominated and being honored that morning. After the nomination was read there was applause, as which many of you know, Josiah does not like. He cried. And cried some more. Everyone jumped to help try to make him happy, which used to be a common activity in the PICU! Chocolate milk was offered, toys were brought and the “puppy” (giraffe) was brought from the other end of the hall. While he calmed down a little bit, he wasn’t truly happy until we were out in the parking lot – where he happily talked about having a good time and enjoying the party.
After the nomination was read, we were able to give hugs and visit with everyone. We hadn’t realized just how big this award really is, and we’re even more humbled to play a small part in honoring and celebrating Kathy, Renae and Kristen. Each nurse definitely deserves all the attention and recognition.
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