Patdy Leong, BSN, RN. (photo by Susan Urmy)
Patdy Leong, BSN, RN, works in the Pediatric Hematology and Oncology unit at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt. She is one of the latest Vanderbilt Health DAISY Award winners.
From the nomination
“From the very beginning, she made a life-changing impact on our family, especially on our two-year-old daughter. Hospital stays can be frightening for little ones, but my daughter was never scared with Patdy by her side. Instead, she felt safe, loved, and comforted every single day. What makes Patdy extraordinary is the way she treated my daughter not just as a patient, but as a whole person. Even though she is only two, Patdy took the time to explain everything to her in a way she could understand. She never rushed, never overlooked her feelings, and always showed patience, tenderness, and kindness. That level of respect and empathy toward such a young child is rare, and we will never forget it. Patdy’s smile greeted us every day, and her presence brought peace during a time that could have otherwise been overwhelming. She was thorough, attentive, and genuinely invested in my daughter’s well-being. She didn’t just provide exceptional nursing care – she made her feel special, valued, and brave. On our last day together, I cried because that is the kind of impact Patdy made. Having someone who treats your child with such compassion and joy is a gift we will always carry with us. She turned a difficult hospital experience into one filled with warmth, trust, and connection. For her exceptional care, her heart for her patients, and the unforgettable difference she made in our daughter’s life this week, I wholeheartedly nominate Patdy for the DAISY Award. She represents the very best of nursing, and our family is forever grateful to sweet Patdy!”
About DAISY Awards
The DAISY Award is a recognition for extraordinary nurses who exemplify compassion toward patients and families.
Vanderbilt Health 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.
Vanderbilt Health 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.