Regina Akin, BSN, RN, works at the Vanderbilt Eye Institute. She is one of the latest DAISY Award winners at VUMC.
From the nomination
“When my daughter lost vision in her left eye, we were terrified. After many visits to other doctors, we were referred to Dr. G at Vanderbilt Eye Institute. Nurse Regina called to make the appointment. I was a nervous wreck, could it be something terrible, was it treatable? I was so emotional and had so many questions! Regina assured me that Dr. G was the best and would take care of my daughter. Regina called and sent emails to check on my daughter. We now have a diagnosis and are being treated. My daughter’s vision is back to normal with the treatments she receives. Many times, throughout this journey, I reached out to Regina. She could have gotten frustrated many times looking back, but she didn’t. She was always the “calm to my storm.” I needed a “Regina” in my life to assure me everything was going to be OK! Regina still greets us with a warm hug and encouraging words when we see her. I don’t know what we would have done without Regina and Dr. G. My family is so thankful for them!”
About DAISY Awards
The DAISY Award is a recognition for extraordinary nurses who exemplify compassion toward patients and families.
VUMC distributes the award in partnership with The DAISY Foundation, which was formed in 1999 to honor the memory of J. Patrick Barnes, a 33-year-old man who died of complications of the autoimmune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP). Barnes’ family was moved by the care they received from his nurses and wanted to recognize them to preserve his memory. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.
VUMC nurse committees determine the individual recipients. Previous recipients of the DAISY Award are here. The award is open to all licensed nurses, and anyone can nominate — including co-workers, patients and their families. Nominations may be made here.