Melanie McAfee, RN works in the Child & Adolescent Unit at Vanderbilt Psychiatric Hospital. She is one of the latest DAISY Award winners at VUMC.
From the nomination
“Mel was really encouraging when our daughter was a patient. She gave me detailed information about my daughter and intently listened to my questions and concerns about sensitive topics like autism and questions about how I can be a more supportive parent of a child with extreme anxiety and depression.
“Sometimes there aren’t simple answers or solutions. As parents we are used to being problem solvers, but mental health doesn’t have easy solutions. I appreciate Mel’s perspective as a nurse. She was kind, concerned, and had a genuine compassion for my daughter and me. I am so grateful for you Mel, thank you!”
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.
