SC New York News

A program recognizing the care and compassion of extraordinary nurses continues at UHS, with Tamera Compasso being named the January winner of the DAISY Award. Tamera was recognized for her achievements and presented with the award while enjoying cinnamon rolls, a symbolic treat in honor of Patrick Barnes, whose experience inspired the award.

The Primary Care nurse was nominated by a patient she cared for. In the nomination letter, the patient expressed feeling overwhelmed after undergoing a triple bypass CABG and receiving a diabetes diagnosis. The patient's head nurse reached out to Tamera, who immediately met with the patient. The patient credits Tamera for saving her life by helping her understand her new diagnosis and manage her condition effectively. Tamera provided educational materials and shared her contact information to continue supporting the patient, instilling confidence in managing diabetes.

"Tammy has saved my sanity and my life," said the nominating patient. "She has helped me gain an understanding of my new normal... She embodies everything that this award stands for and is an incredible role model... She is my angel on earth through this crazy new journey."

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem) Award is an international recognition program honoring skillful, compassionate care by nurses daily. It was established by J. Patrick Barnes' family after he died from complications of ITP in 1999. His family appreciated the care shown during his hospitalization and wanted to publicly thank nurses.

Started at UHS in April 2021, nominations can be made by anyone within the organization—patients, family members, other nurses, physicians, clinicians, or staff—who observes extraordinary care provided by a nurse. Nominations are submitted using a form available on NYUHS.org.

For questions, contact Toni Nash at (607) 763-6896 or email daisy@nyuhs.org.