The DAISY Award^® is an ongoing recognition program that honors and celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide everyday. Active in over 6,000 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing, internationally.

It was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who died from complications of ITP in 1999. During his hospitalization, they deeply appreciated not only the immense clinical skill but also the enormous compassion shown to Pat and his family by his nurses. When Pat died, they felt compelled to say, “thank you!” to nurses in a very personal way.

Nurses are nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. All nominations are then blinded and scored by a committee based on predetermined criteria. The Honoree is celebrated publicly with a ceremony. Nominees receive a copy of their nomination, pin, and note.