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"The transformation in the patient's demeanor was incredible … on their way out, they smiled and proudly said, ‘Those are my girls!’ — referring to Rachel and Fallon." 

Rachel Bailey, RN, and Fallon Weisbrodt, RN, UVA Health Prince William Medical Center, each have earned a DAISY Award for providing a creative and understanding solution to a patient in our Emergency Department (ED) that also can be used at the patient's home facility.

UVA Community Health Nursing Professional Governance Organization (NPGO) selects and celebrates DAISY Award winners for thoughtful care that goes the extra mile.

Frustration Into Joy

In his nomination of Bailey and Weisbrodt, Assistant Nurse Manager Michael Bagaporo, BSN, RN, explains:

“During a recent ED visit, a patient with expressive aphasia was struggling to communicate their needs, leading to visible frustration and emotional distress. This had been a persistent challenge not only in our facility, but also in the patient's home facility, where communication barriers often left the patient feeling isolated and upset. 

“Rachel and Fallon recognized this challenge and immediately stepped into action. They utilized our 'communication box' with remarkable efficiency and compassion, patiently engaging with the patient using picture communication sheets. Through their dedicated efforts, Rachel and Fallon helped the patient express themseves more clearly, turning what was once a source of deep frustration — into moments of connection, understanding, and even joy! 

“The transformation in the patient's demeanor was incredible. They became noticeably calmer, reassured, and even happy. One of the most touching moments came when, on their way out, they smiled and proudly said, ‘Those are my girls!’ — referring to Rachel and Fallon.” 

Collaborative Care Beyond Our Walls

“But Rachel and Fallon didn't stop there. They thoughtfully reached out to leadership to see if the communication sheets could be shared with the patient after discharge. They printed and provided the patient with a set of the materials to take home, ensuring the patient could continue to communicate more effectively anywhere. This forward-thinking act also made a big difference for the EMS crew that came to transport the patient. They found the sheets helpful in understanding and assisting the patient.” 

“Rachel and Fallon went above and beyond, thinking not just about care within our own walls — but about how to support this patient in every setting. Their empathy, creativity, and commitment to person-centered care exemplify the very spirit of the DAISY Award.”

In Their Own Words

Weisbrodt has been a nurse for only five months — all of that time here at UVA Health — making her actions even more commendable, given how quickly she has picked up on our values. “it's an honor to receive the DAISY Award," says Weisbrodt, pictured with her family and support system below:

All three of Bailey’s years of nursing also have been spent at UVA Health — undoubtedly filled with other such instances of kindness. What does the DAISY Award mean to her? "It reassures me why I am a nurse and how important patients are,” answers Bailey, pictured below with her family and support system:

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.

Patients or their family members; visitors; and team members can submit a nomination for a UVA Health Culpeper, Haymarket, or Prince William Medical Center nurse.