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Learn how this UVA Health nurse's "calm and confident demeanor brought reassurance during moments of anxiety and uncertainty." 

"Nurses like Emily McKee are the reason patients and families feel safe, supported, and cared for during some of life’s hardest moments," hails a UVA Health University Medical Center patient's family. And it's for her stellar work that this nurse is being honored with a DAISY Award.

UVA Health University Medical Center Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, and Jenny Ernest, Nursing Governance Coordinator, Nursing Professional Governance Office, surprised Emily McKee, BSN, RN, 3 Central, with the award.

A patient's siblings nominated McKee:

"It Does Not Go Unnoticed"

"During an incredibly stressful, emotional, and uncertain time for our family, Emily McKee stood out as an extraordinary caregiver who truly embodies what the DAISY Award represents.

"From the moment Emily entered my brother’s room, it was clear that she saw him not just as a patient, but as a person. She was consistently attentive, compassionate, and proactive in every aspect of his care. Emily took the time to explain medications, procedures, and next steps in a way that was clear, calm, and reassuring — not only to my brother, but to our entire family. Her ability to communicate complex information with empathy made an overwhelming situation feel more manageable.

"What impressed us most was how Emily went above and beyond her standard responsibilities. She regularly checked in without being asked, anticipated my brother’s needs, and advocated for his comfort and wellbeing. Whether it was promptly addressing symptoms, coordinating with the care team, or simply taking a moment to listen — Emily demonstrated exceptional professionalism and genuine kindness.

"Her presence brought comfort during moments of fear and uncertainty. She treated my brother with dignity, respect, and compassion — and she treated our family as partners in his care. Her consistency, dependability, and patient-centered approach made a significant positive impact on my brother’s hospital experience and on our family’s peace of mind.

"Nurses like Emily McKee are the reason patients and families feel safe, supported, and cared for during some of life’s hardest moments. She exemplifies extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, and relationship-based care — and is deeply deserving of recognition through the DAISY Award.

"Thank you for the care you provide every day, Emily! It does not go unnoticed, and it made all the difference for our family!"

'Heard and Included'

"During what has been an incredibly difficult and emotional experience for our family, Emily McKee provided care that went far beyond expectations and left a lasting impression on all of us.

"Her compassion and attentiveness were evident in every interaction. She took exceptional care of my brother — always making sure he was comfortable, informed, and supported. Emily never rushed through conversations, listened carefully, answered questions thoroughly, and ensured my brother understood his care plan. Her calm and confident demeanor brought reassurance during moments of anxiety and uncertainty.

"What truly set Emily apart was her genuine commitment to patient and family. She recognized how overwhelming a hospital stay can be and consistently made herself available to check in, provide updates, and offer encouragement. Emily treated my brother with kindness, patience, and respect — and extended that same care to our family — making us feel heard and included throughout his hospitalization.

"Emily’s professionalism, reliability, and clinical expertise were clear, but it was her empathy and human connection that made the greatest impact. She approached her role with integrity and heart, creating a sense of trust that allowed us to feel confident in my brother’s care.

"Because of Emily McKee, our family felt supported during one of the most challenging times in our lives. She exemplifies excellence in nursing and represents the very best of UVA Health. I am deeply grateful for her dedication and wholeheartedly believe she is deserving of the DAISY Award!"

Know a Fabulous Nurse?

"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.

The Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center nurses each month with the DAISY Award. At UVA Health University Medical Center — patients or their families, visitors, and team members may submit a DAISY Award nomination.