Meet the 2024/2025 DAISY Award winners

Nominated by a patient

After a terrifying first pregnancy, we have been looked after by Yazmin twice so far in

our second pregnancy and each time goes above and beyond. She genuinely is the

kindest person I’ve ever met and helps me feel relaxed in an anxious environment. She

would visit me in ICU during my first pregnancy, bringing hand knitted hats for my little

boy and helped me express my colostrum and milk which I will be forever grateful for.

Without her, my son wouldn’t have been able to have 6 weeks of my milk. In this

pregnancy she has had made a notes folder which has been personalised. All these

gestures are so thoughtful and a true representation on Yazmin’s kind and caring

character. She makes coming to Triage that little easier, and I will always remember her

for being so thoughtful and kind. She really does continue to make such a positive

impact in my pregnancy!

Nominated by a Colette Seddon, Paediatric Community Matron

I would like to nominate my colleague Fay for a DAISY Award for her extraordinary compassion and unwavering support during what has been the most challenging year of my life.

This past year, my daughter was involved in a serious road traffic collision that required extensive care. Just as I was beginning to navigate that heartbreaking situation, I returned to work only to face the devastating loss of my son. These events turned my world upside down, and I honestly don’t know how I would have managed without Fay by my side.

Fay has been an incredible source of support throughout this time. She has been there for me during my darkest moments, listening to me cry on the phone and in person—even allowing me to cry uninterrupted for over 20 minutes when I simply couldn’t hold it together. Her ability to provide a safe space for me to grieve, vent, and process my emotions has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Returning to work after almost a year away was an overwhelming experience. I felt lost and unsure of how to navigate the transition. Fay’s support has been a lifeline during this process. She has guided me with patience and understanding, making my phased return manageable and far less daunting than I had feared. She has been there every step of the way, checking in regularly and ensuring I never feel alone in this journey. Fay’s compassion and empathy shine through in everything she does. Her actions have not only helped me regain a sense of normalcy but also reminded me of the incredible kindness and humanity that exists in our workplace. Fay truly embodies what it means to be a compassionate caregiver, and I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition.

Thank you, Fay, for being my rock during this unimaginable year. You are an inspiration to all of us.

Nominated by Kevin Hazelwood, Emergency Department Pharmacist

I recently brought my 12 year old autistic son in for an acute surgical problem. It was

11pm, he was tired, in obvious pain and very anxious about his visit.  Once triaged and awaiting the surgeons we were moved to the Children’s Assessment Unit where Shay introduced herself and took over his nursing care. From that first moment she was absolutely amazing with him.

Being autistic our son does not normally engage with strangers, but Shay was quickly able to make him feel safe and comfortable. Her mannerisms and nurturing style, mixed with a little humour, enabled her to carry out the required observations without fuss, and apply “magic cream” to multiple sites. She even got him to smile and recite his name and DOB when asked which was great!  She constantly reassured him about what was going to happen and was very patient, professional and caring when going through things with us as parents. She accompanied us up to recovery for emergency theatre and then even carried mum’s bags down to Bluebell and made sure she was okay while our son was in theatre.

It wasn’t until later she became aware that we (both parents) were healthcare practitioners and familiar with hospitals and ED processes so all her actions and behaviours were natural and not adapted in any way. It was incredibly reassuring to see Shay deliver excellent, competent and compassionate care to our son and we are very grateful the Trust has nurses like her.  Thank you Shay!!

Nominated by a patient’s mother

On the 4 December 2024, my 8 week old son was admitted to Bluebell ward following a bacterial infection. As you can imagine as a first time parent, this was extremely daunting.

I used to work as a registered professional at Lister Hospital so I am fully aware of the Trust’s values and what each staff member should be maintaining during their care to patients. I can say with absolute confidence that the care has been amazing from his visit in the Children’s Assessment Unit/Children’s Emergency Department right up until his discharge from Bluebell ward.

In particular, Staff Nurse Shaz on Bluebell ward has been exceptional which is why I’d like to nominate her for a DAISY award.  She took the time to listen to my concerns as a mother but made sure she cared for both myself and my son with her holistic approach. She was empathetic, nurturing, compassionate and went above and beyond for both my son and I.  No task or question asked was too much trouble and she was able to provide me with the confidence I needed to go forward in feeding my son on a different formula and provided me with emotional/mental health support postpartum following my journey so far.

The last eight weeks of motherhood have been really challenging and not the best experience and somehow talking to Shaz has made going forward as a mum that little bit easier, especially after providing support, advice, guidance and reassurance. I cannot thank her enough, she is a credit to the ward and to Lister Hospital.

2^nd nomination:  Nominated by a patient’s mother

 Between July and October 2024, our three year old daughter was hospitalised multiple times via ambulance due to unexplained seizures. These always required emergency care (often in resus) and several weeks-long stays on Bluebell ward. We also had two blue light transfers to Addenbrooke’s for more specialist care.  Out daughter had to undergo many invasive tests to understand her medical condition and the best treatment plan. I was 6 weeks postpartum at the time of her first admission and was breastfeeding a baby and still recovering from birth. This coupled with the fact that her condition was complex and unexplained meant that this was a really traumatic period for my husband and I, as well as our wider family.

From the first interaction with Shaz I could tell that she was someone who could provide safe and competent care to our daughter but also that she was incredibly compassionate to my husband and I.  She provided a shoulder to cry on and counselled me through many of the hospital processes and tests and gave me reassurance that our daughter was safe. I spent every night with her during her admissions and Shaz helped me manage my breastfeeding journey for our new son so that I could balance both of my children’s needs and this had a really positive impact on my experience at hospital.  On multiple occasions during our stays, Shaz went above and beyond in her role. For example, she worked tirelessly with the doctors to coordinate an urgent MRI scan for our daughter and a blue light transfer to Addenbrooke’s. I know this involved co-ordinating many teams and really advocating for our daughter to very stretched and busy teams. She always kept us up to date with our daughter’s treatment and this made a massive difference in understanding her care plan. At a time when we felt very out of control, she made sure we were well informed and involved in all of the plans for her treatment.

Whilst her primary role is looking after the children under her care, Shaz went above and beyond in making my husband and I feel as supported and reassured as possible – including visiting us in the resus department when we were readmitted – and this demonstrated to me her genuine compassion for our daughter and the exceptional support she provides for parents she interacts with.

Thankfully our daughter is now doing brilliantly and currently has her seizures under control but I genuinely don’t think I could have got through the last few months without the wonderful Bluebell team and Shaz.

Nominated by Lauren Cook, Midwife

I would like to nominate Becky for a DAISY award for the exceptional support she has given me as a colleague and manager. I qualified as a midwife in September, at the same time as Becky took over as the new preceptor lead for midwives. I significantly struggled with my confidence and anxiety since qualifying and went into a very dark place, which led to me having to take 7 weeks off work through the stresses of my job. I went to Becky when I was feeling my worst and she has gone above and beyond to do everything she can to make me feel better at work. No problem was too big for her, and I truly felt I could be completely honest with my thoughts. She has such a kind and caring nature, has been someone I feel I can really trust and has put in so much work to allow me to feel comfortable. She has been at the end of a phone call or text message at all times of the day and even on her days off. She has consistently checked in with me during my time off, has arranged weekly meetings and has communicated with my colleagues and implemented changes on what can help me during my shifts.

Becky was the person to encourage me to take some time off to focus on myself, and without that gentle nudge, I would have never of allowed myself to do so. She was also the person that encouraged me to agree to seeking help from my GP which has made a big difference. She has allowed me to take time off without the feelings of guilt I would usually have and has been so supportive upon my return, making sure she comes to check on me during and after shifts as well as regular meetings again. She has sat and listened to every worry or issue I have had, and addressed them all, providing solutions and advice which has been so helpful in changing my mindset and feelings about work.

Becky is a truly wonderful and empowering person, who deserves all the credit she can for the lovely person she is. Not to forget, she has managed to achieve all of this whilst being new in the job herself, where I can imagine she is also navigating the natural struggles that come with understanding a new job role and looking after all of the other newly qualified midwives. I truly believe that without Becky, I would have left my job by now and been looking at another career. But because of her support, I have started to build my confidence and even thrive at work. Therefore, I would love to be able to give something little back to portray my gratitude for her support!

Nominated by Teresa Tom, Nurse Team Manager

Marie always comes onto shift in a happy bright mood. She works a lot of nights and more recently as winter is approaching the shifts have been very busy with a demanding workload. She has been noted by myself to manage and lead the shift in a calm and controlled manner guiding newer members of the team and leading them through the shift. She is polite to the medical team as well as service users.

In particular this Monday was exceptionally busy with over an hour wait to triage due to the sheer amount of patients booking in to CED. Marie did not panic or complain about what was ahead of her as the nurse in charge, instead started the shift getting involved with tackling the triages whilst also having an oversight with the running of the caseload and running order for the different specialities to see.  Marie is a caring individual and always approachable and flexible with shift changes if able.  Keep up the good work!

2^nd nomination:  Nominated by a parent

I would like to nominate Marie Little in Children’s Emergency Department for the DAISY Award.  My daughter attended and had been admitted with RSV.  Marie cared for my daughter overnight, Marie was efficient in making sure my daughter received all the correct medication on time, ensuring she had regular observations and making sure she was comfortable.  Having previously felt undermined and not listened to, Marie came in as a breath of fresh air and asked my opinions and thoughts on the care plan and treatments. Marie also had incredible bedside manner and her communication with my daughter was amazing. Marie offered patient and family centred care, something we felt lacked in the day.

Marie offered refreshments to myself regularly throughout the night, despite being so busy that I am sure she did not have a break herself – this shows the type of nurse that Marie is. Marie is caring, compassionate and always thinking about the best interests of her patients and their care givers.  Although we were asleep, when Marie finished her night shift, she came to say goodbye. This action truly shows that Marie is one of the most incredible nurses that Lister has, she really is a credit to the department.

Nominated by Aisling Thurley, Midwife

 Jasmine has gone above and beyond for a woman and her baby under difficult circumstances. She changed her shift to ensure she could be present for the birth and also went in on her day off when the unit staff were refused entry to the room to care for the woman. Jasmine also created a bag of baby items for the baby to take into care when the parents had not prepared anything. Jasmine is a fabulous midwife and an amazing member of the team.

2^nd nomination:  Nominated by Mary Goodin, Consultant;  Anna Matthews, Midwife  and Stacey Malone, Midwife

We would like to nominate Jasmine Nelson for a DAISY award.  She is an incredibly dedicated community midwife who gives all of her patient’s wonderful care. She recently went above and beyond the remit of her role to support a very complex couple, to whom the world has been unkind throughout their lives.  The patient is neurodiverse and clearly experiences the world very differently from the majority of us. This has led to multiple challenges in providing her optimal antenatal care. Jasmine has been dedicated to finding ways to help her overcome these challenges to ensure both the mother and the baby have the best outcome possible and gave truly personalised care.

In addition to her neurodiversity, this patient has a complex mental health and social background, which has required working with the full maternity MDT, presenting and advocating for her whilst considering the future wellbeing of the unborn child. Examples of the personalised care included arranging and attending all her appointments in the hospital with her (prior to Jasmine doing this she was DNA-ing all her care) and making sure she is able to get here by advocating her to have taxis. She arranged her timetable so she could be present for her birth as this patient would struggle with an unfamiliar team. She attended that unit, on her day off, at the request of other staff in the unit as this patient was struggling with her mental wellbeing postnatally, Jasmine help calmed down a very tricky situation.

As a service we are lucky to have such a phenomenal community midwife who has made sure she is able to provide truly personalised continuity of care, despite all the other demands on the community midwifery team.

Nominated by Aries Reyes, Lead Moving and Handling Advisor

I am honoured to nominate Marta and Darren from the Moving and Handling team for the DAISY Award for their outstanding contribution to a life-saving incident in one of the Trust’s satellite units.

They had visited the area primarily to facilitate and conduct a scheduled Moving and Handling audit. However, upon entering the department, Marta and Darren noticed a patient who became critically unwell. Demonstrating exceptional situational awareness, they quickly assessed the patient’s condition and, moments later, witnessed the patient go into cardiac arrest.

Without hesitation, Marta and Darren took decisive action. Using their expertise and calm professionalism, they coordinated with the staff present to safely lower the patient to the ground, ensuring no further harm. They immediately initiated chest compressions, performing effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Despite challenges posed by the department’s limited manpower that day, their swift intervention, teamwork, and adherence to life-saving protocols were instrumental in resuscitating the patient before emergency medical teams arrived.

Thanks to their life-saving efforts, the patient regained consciousness, providing precious additional time for the patient to be with their loved ones. Although the patient sadly passed away a few days later due to their deteriorating condition, Marta and Darren’s actions allowed the patient to bid farewell to their family—a deeply meaningful and invaluable gift in their final days.  This extraordinary incident underscores Marta and Darren’s technical skills, dedication to patient safety, and respect for human dignity. Their heroic response embodies the essence of the DAISY Award and deserves the highest recognition.

Nominated by Aries Reyes, Lead Moving and Handling Advisor

I am honoured to nominate Marta and Darren from the Moving and Handling team for the DAISY Award for their outstanding contribution to a life-saving incident in one of the Trust’s satellite units.

They had visited the area primarily to facilitate and conduct a scheduled Moving and Handling audit. However, upon entering the department, Marta and Darren noticed a patient who became critically unwell. Demonstrating exceptional situational awareness, they quickly assessed the patient’s condition and, moments later, witnessed the patient go into cardiac arrest.

Without hesitation, Marta and Darren took decisive action. Using their expertise and calm professionalism, they coordinated with the staff present to safely lower the patient to the ground, ensuring no further harm. They immediately initiated chest compressions, performing effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Despite challenges posed by the department’s limited manpower that day, their swift intervention, teamwork, and adherence to life-saving protocols were instrumental in resuscitating the patient before emergency medical teams arrived.

Thanks to their life-saving efforts, the patient regained consciousness, providing precious additional time for the patient to be with their loved ones. Although the patient sadly passed away a few days later due to their deteriorating condition, Marta and Darren’s actions allowed the patient to bid farewell to their family—a deeply meaningful and invaluable gift in their final days.  This extraordinary incident underscores Marta and Darren’s technical skills, dedication to patient safety, and respect for human dignity. Their heroic response embodies the essence of the DAISY Award and deserves the highest recognition.

Nominated by a patient

In August 2024, I was admitted to the Lister for an induction to deliver my third baby. After a tricky 24 hours, where my anxiety spiked, I was told I was 4cm dilated and was transferred to the MLU ready to go and deliver my baby.

There, I met Imogen. She immediately put me at ease and treated me with a gentle kindness and respect. She asked me for my birth preferences – I said I hadn’t written a birth plan because I was being induced for a third time and things were out of my control. She explained it was never too late, and we talked through my preferences – my desire to have immediate skin to skin and my fears about not feeling safe and that I needed to be reminded I was safe to keep anxiety at bay.

A few hours later it was a shift change and time to say goodbye to Imogen (I was gutted!). Unfortunately, the induction did not progress well and I had to go back to Dacre Ward to continue my induction. I struggled to gain composure and was pretty upset about it.

The next morning, I went for a walk and bumped into Imogen and Keira (who was also incredible). I wasn’t under Imogen’s care at that point but she still took the time to talk to me about how I felt going back to Dacre – she listened, she cared. This wasn’t part of her shift or work but she went above and beyond to check I was ok.

Fast forward a few hours and I was on the CLU getting my waters broken and the midwife looking after me was called in for an emergency section. I had to transfer to a new midwife. And who popped her head round the corner with a huge smile – Imogen!  It was so reassuring, and it meant I continued to feel relaxed.

Imogen was amazing – encouraging but respectful of the space my husband and I wanted to create. She created a safe space and protected the room. She advocated for me – asking people to leave the room when she could tell it was impacting me. It was like she was one step ahead of what I was thinking.

My labour ramped up quickly and I felt I was losing control. It was a sign of the trust I had built that I grabbed Imogen’s hand and asked her how to get control back. She looked me in the eye and told me I was, that I was doing it. Things escalated quickly and I remember suddenly feeling scared. Until I heard Imogen’s voice saying “you’re safe and baby is safe”. It meant SO much that even though she must have met lots of women between when I first met her and when she came back to help with delivery, she remembered exactly what I needed and in an instant she stopped my fear.

I remember thinking “you’re safe, time to enjoy this experience now,”. And I did! It grounded me and through that simple reminder she bought me back to the birth so that I could really experience and connect, knowing I was safe.

She also remembered my desire to have skin to skin and made this happen instantly (and respectfully) – I didn’t have to remind, it just seamlessly happened. Through her very personalised care that really centred around what I needed and wanted, she turned a very stressful induction into a birth that was empowering and so special. I loved my birth and I have amazing memories of it because of Imogen. She completely turned around my whole experience because of her compassion and the way she knew exactly what would help me.

Imogen is a complete credit to the profession and to the Lister. I have been lucky enough to give birth to three babies and the care I received from Imogen completely stands out – she empowers women beautifully by knowing what will make a difference to them. Thank you Imogen!

1^st nomination:  Nominated by a patient 

Mr Salazar has really made a difference to my time as a patient receiving haemodialysis. There are two main areas in which he has made a big impact and these are; his friendly approach to the patients and the level of professionalism he displays in doing his job.

Mr Salazar is always so cheerful and caring when delivering care and even on my bad days when I’m feeling low, he always manages to put a smile on my face. Whenever I see him, he is cheerful and always takes time to communicate with myself and the other patients. He does have a holistic approach to the care he delivers, he understands that receiving dialysis is not easy and shows concern for our mental and emotional welfare as well as the physical.   Even though there are times the unit can be very busy, I have seen Troy assisting other staff when they needed help and he is always working hard, making sure that the necessary equipment needed on the unit is available and items are in good condition.

Whenever I have needed any advice about my treatment or have required assistance when Troy was on shift, he always has taken the time to talk with me, or assist me and explain what I needed to know. He really has made a difference to my time at the unit, he makes it a friendly, informative and safe place and I know I can always turn to him and get friendly and professional advice. Troy makes receiving quite a difficult treatment so much more pleasant and I think this should be recognised, therefore I am making this nomination. 

2^nd nomination:  Nominated by a patient 

Troy is a valuable member of this unit. He’s professional, caring, great at communicating, compassionate and skilled. He helps us out straight away, makes conversation, always checking up on our mental wellbeing and physical health to see if we’re okay. He always goes the extra mile to make you feel comfortable, always making us laugh and smile. Troy is always meticulous in his work and approach to the treatment.

Especially when I am difficult to needle, he reassures me it’ll be okay and is always so gentle when inserting the needle, he’s never given up on me even though sometimes it can take up to about a good 20 minutes + to needle just one site. It can get frustrating when needling takes this long but he still smiles at me and continues to reassure me things will go smoothly. He’s always consistent with ensuring things go to plan and is always prepared to do things efficiently so there’s no delay. He’s a genuine person with a lot of patience and understanding, it feels welcoming every time he’s at the unit. He never rushes you and always answers any questions we have, always checks up on information or results for us. He’s always great even when dealing with difficult situations. Nurses are often the heart of healthcare and they create the biggest impact on the environment you’re around. 

I would say Troy is that special nurse that makes the entire experience of being in dialysis bearable especially when you’re having a hard time. I know if he’s here, we’re going to be having a good time in dialysis, stress free and calm. He’s devoted to being an amazing nurse, he puts the extra care and effort always for everyone. He deserves the award for being so generous and kind-hearted. He’s an exceptional nurse.

Nominated by a member of the public 

Beneth was the nurse looking after my husband following prostate removal in February. During his time on ward 7B North, all of the staff were kind and caring but Beneth stood out for her kind and compassionate care: Following a very uncomfortable and painful night, Beneth kindly stepped in when the bed manager asked that my husband be moved to the treatment centre, advocating for him, explaining to her colleagues that it would be detrimental to his recovery. Her care was outstanding, going over and above her role, with all of the patients in the bay my husband was in, going to great lengths to understand patient needs.

The patient next to my husband was rude and aggressive to her however, she remained very patient, repeatedly explaining in a kind way what was happening. She calmed the patient, showing empathy and understanding of his needs and he was then apologetic and grateful. The patient turned out to be deaf, her approach created a safe, calming space, respecting the patient and ensured his needs were met.  Beneth’s kind, compassionate manner meant that I felt confident that my husband was receiving outstanding care, making it easier to leave him each night. 

Before he was discharged, she patiently went through everything I needed to do for my husband at home, demonstrating how to do the blood thinning injection the first day and allowed me to do it for him on the second day, under her careful instruction. She showed me how to change both day and night bag and advised on washing/showering. I am grateful to Beneth for going the extra mile and ensuring my husband’s care in hospital and on discharge was the best it could be.  Beneth deserves recognition for truly demonstrating every aspect of the DAISY award.  We are very grateful to her!