Haelee Schmitt, LPN, Honored for Outstanding Nursing Excellence at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital

Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital (LCRH) is delighted to announce Haelee Schmitt, LPN, as the latest recipient of the prestigious DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses. Haelee, who recently joined LCRH’s medical unit after graduating from nursing school, has quickly become known for her unwavering dedication and patient-centered approach, exemplifying the exceptional standard of care that LCRH strives to provide. The DAISY Award honors nurses who make a significant impact on the lives of their patients, as part of the DAISY Foundation's mission to recognize extraordinary nursing efforts.

The DAISY Foundation, a not-for-profit organization based in Glen Ellen, CA, was founded in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who tragically passed away at 33 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), an autoimmune disease. The foundation was inspired by Patrick and his family's extraordinary care from nurses during his illness and aims to express gratitude to nurses for their profound impact on patients and their families.

Haelee Schmitt earned this nomination through a heartfelt recommendation from a former patient. The patient expressed their appreciation, stating, "If our world were filled with more people like Haelee, it would be a better place. Haelee has made me laugh in the midst of sorrow and has been like a sister to me with careful, gentle care and compassion. She is professional and skilled, and she shows love and a personal touch to her patients."

Patients, families, and colleagues are welcome to nominate for the DAISY Award, and LCRH's nurse leadership team oversees the selection of the quarterly recipients. The honoree is celebrated with a special brunch attended by team members, executive leadership, physicians, and peers. Recipients receive a certificate, a DAISY Award® pin, an exclusive parking spot, and a beautifully hand-carved sculpture titled "A Heather’s Touch." Additionally, they are treated to iced cinnamon rolls, a favorite of Patrick’s during his illness.

Tanya Nelson-Hackney, MBA, RN, NEA-BC, CPPS, Chief Nursing Officer at LCRH, stated, "We are thrilled to recognize Haelee for her outstanding dedication to providing high-quality, patient-centered care. The DAISY Award program at Lake Cumberland is a heartfelt acknowledgment of our nurses' compassion and service to our community."

To learn more about the DAISY Award® or to nominate an exceptional nurse like Haelee, please visit LakeCumberlandHospital.com/daisy-award.