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"This small act, this act alone, causes to me to cry even now as I write this. Emmie Summy made such a lasting impression — one I will never ever forget." 

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 Karin Skeen, PhD, RN, NEA-BC, and DAISY Award Committee Chair Leanne Davis, RN, surprised Emmel Summy, RN, Mother/Baby, with an award.

A UVA Health team member, who was also a patient, nominated Summy:

"It's taken me a long time to sit down and write this nomination. The emotional, mental, and physical stress that my birth experience has taken on me prevented me from writing this without sobbing. That being said, I need to express my sincere gratefulness for the care that Emmie Summy gave me.

"I was admitted to UVA Health for vasa previa [a rare pregnancy complication that can lead to severe blood loss for the fetus if not carefully managed] with a first bleed, and subsequently a second, which led to me delivering via cesarean section and my baby earning himself an extended NICU [Neonatal Intensvie Care Unit] stay. Throughout this stressful time, Emmie cared for me as if I was her family.

"She took time out of her busy shifts to sit with me and listen when I need someone to talk to. She provided comfort in many ways, and her presence was calming and reassuring. Because I have four other young children and live a long distance away, many days and nights I was alone with my fears. Emmie was a source of strength for me. She took the time to get to know me and things that I liked, which led her to bringing me a fresh cup of hot tea every morning before she handed off my care to the day shift nurse.

"This small act, this one alone, causes me to cry even now as I write this. I am a fellow nurse, labor and delivery, at another UVA Health hospital. I know the effort that it takes to make time for each of your patients, to provide them with personal and individualized care. Emmie Summy made such a lasting impression — one I will never ever forget. I cannot think of anyone who is more deserving of this DAISY Award, than Emmie Summy!"

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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.