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Sarah Mullins earns a DAISY Award after helping arrange a wedding ceremony for the daughter of a patient in hospice. 

UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center has recognized Sarah Mullins, RN, Medical Treatment Unit, with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. “Sarah exemplifies what it means to be an extraordinary nurse," says Loida Medrano, RN, who nominated Mullins. "She goes above and beyond in her commitment to her patients and her nursing team, consistently advocating for both with unwavering compassion.”

Making a Difference

Mullins made a profound impact while caring for a hospice patient at UVA Health Culpeper Medical Center. The patient, who was experiencing a rapid decline in health — initially misunderstood the purpose of hospice care — thinking it was simply for waiting for death. Mullins took the time to sit with the patient, explain the true meaning of hospice, and share her personal experiences with end-of-life care. Through her patience and compassionate communication, the patient gained clarity and ultimately chose to embrace hospice services.

But the nurse's care didn’t stop with the patient. She reached out to the patient's wife and family to ensure they understood the decision. After receiving their agreement, Mullins coordinated with the hospital’s care team — hospitalists, case management, and social work — to facilitate the transition to hospice care.

Heartfelt Moment

Once the patient transitioned to hospice, Mullins continued to advocate for his comfort and well-being. During a particularly emotional conversation, the patient expressed regret about missing his daughter’s upcoming wedding. Mullins, moved by his sorrow, immediately took action. She contacted the family to see if they would be interested in arranging a small ceremony to take place in the patient's hospital room. The entire family was touched by the gesture and agreed.

Mullins jumped into action. Within two days, the ceremony was held, with many nursing team members in attendance. Her colleagues commented that the sight of the patient holding his daughter’s hand while she married the love of her life brought all of the them to tears. 

Sadly, the patient passed away the following day. Mullins had prepared the family for the inevitable, offering support and guidance as they said their emotional goodbyes. Their final moments together were filled with love, prayers, and the comforting knowledge that they had shared a meaningful family milestone, thanks to the nurse's unwavering compassion and dedication.

A Legacy of Care

Sarah Mullins' actions ensured the patient experienced a dignified passing and also allowied him to be part of a cherished family moment. Her ability to create such profound memories in the midst of grief underscores her exceptional character and commitment to her patients and their family.

“I am honored to be recognized by my coworkers and the DAISY Foundation,” says Mullins. “My 35 years in nursing and my passion for geriatric medicine continue to inspire me as I work toward completing my master’s degree. Every day, my experiences as a nurse remind me that I am in the right place, doing the right thing. I will always be a voice and an advocate for my patients.”

About the DAISY Award

DAISY stands for "Diseases Attacking the Immune System." The award was established by The DAISY Foundation in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at the age of 33 from an autoimmune disease. His family, deeply moved by the care and compassion of the nurses who treated him, created the award to recognize nurses nationwide. At UVA Health's three medical centers in Culpeper, Haymarket, and Prince William — patients or their families, and visitors, and team members are encouraged to nominate exceptional nurses for this prestigious award.

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