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"Then a ray of light, Sarah Sweeney, entered my father-in-law's room as we were simply trying to process each moment." 

The Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center nurses each month with a DAISY Award. Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and Jenny Ernest, Nursing Governance Coordinator, Nursing Professional Governance Office, surprised Sarah Sweeney, BSN, RN, Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), with a DAISY Award.

A patient's family member — a former nurse — nominated Sweeney:

"I fully understand the challenges that can come with meeting a patient and family during one of their toughest days and battles. It's never easy. Now, having to be on the 'other side' as the family member comes with its own challenges, too. I can honestly say that one particular nurse in the MICU embraced these challenges and will never be forgotten as she truly made a significant impact on us during our stress and grief.

"We did all of the things as recommended by my father-in-law's oncologist, all while holding onto our faith and remaining optimistic through chemo, surgery, and follow-up visits.

"Unfortunately, after a period of clear scans, we started to learn about a re-occurrence of the cancer. Several oncology visits and a few scans later, we knew we'd have an uphill battle to fight. Chemo was recommended again and scheduled.

"My father-in-law has never been one to be fully open about his concerns and/or changes in symptoms. However, he spoke up when he started experiencing some acutely worsening symptoms. This led to an immediate ED evaluation, admission, and an unfortunate rapid decompensation. He was moved from an acute care room to the MICU after a Medical Emergency Team (MET) call.

"Our family pulled together and braced for the worst. We knew the end result from his unfortunate diagnosis but weren't prepared with how quickly he would go downhill. For a period of time, everything seemed very dark and the unknown was heartbreaking.

"Then a ray of light, Sarah Sweeney, entered my father-in-law's room as we were simply trying to process each moment. In the midst of uncertainty, struggles, and many tense moments, Sarah handled each situation with grace, wisdom, and fierce compassion. She advocated intensely but also communicated with our family and quickly became a part of ours in some of the toughest of moments.

"We laughed together, were comforted during the tougher moments, and covered with empathy. We were able to openly discuss our thoughts and collaborate as a true team with one goal: to ensure my father-in-law was kept comfortable and that his wishes were completely respected and honored. Sarah made every request happen and advocated intensely.

"I can't begin to find the words to thank Sarah enough for everything. Please know, you are a true light in the darkness and an incredible nurse who makes a tremendous difference! Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for everything. You will always be remembered and treasured. Even through our dark days, you brought the light."

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"DAISY" stands for "Diseases Attacking the Immune System." The DAISY Award was established by The DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at the age of only 33 of an autoimmune disease. The Barnes Family was awestruck by the clinical skills, caring, and compassion of his nurses — so they created this national award to thank nurses everywhere.

At UVA Health University Medical Center — patients or their families, visitors, and team members may submit a DAISY Award nomination.