Jones Applauds CMC Nurse for Compassionate Care with DAISY Award

On January 24, 2023, Brian Jones of Fairfield Glade was rushed to Cumberland Medical Center by EMS for emergent cardiac care. Because of the loving care he experienced by Emergency Department nurse Kellie Tucker, he feels the need to share his first-hand experience with others.

“This can make a positive difference for someone,” says Jones. “I want to share how her care in my moment of need was life-changing, because it may make all the difference for someone one day. We should not fear going to our hospital when we need it.”

Jones moved to Fairfield Glade from San Diego, California a few months prior to his heart attack. He learned about the area from close friends and said being in the “Bible Belt” was important to him as a Christian.

“I remember my life flashing before me, and I could not speak clearly; however Kellie comforted me and prayed with me. It was apparent she knew her nursing skills, however it was her intuitive nature to comfort me in this way that has fueled me to want to tell others.”

Jones confides that anyone can do a job, but the pride and ownership she displayed to him made it apparent that her role was more than just an average job performed for pay. It was her calling.

“I nominated her for a DAISY Award in hopes she could be recognized amongst her peers for being an exemplary nurse. I believe she is a role model that can positively influence others,” Jones adds.

Tucker Receives DAISY Award

On Valentine’s Day, February 14, Jones planned his next visit to Cumberland Medical Center to surprise his nurse with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.

“I try to do my very best for my patients,” Tucker shared. “I want them to know that I am here and care for them. From time to time, you encounter a patient that you know you will carry them in your heart long after their time with you in the hospital. He has definitely made a life-long impression on me.”

Tucker was surprised by Jones and her leaders with an official Daisy Award presentation that included a certificate, a sculpture, cinnamon rolls and a bouquet of daisy flowers.

Tucker Feels at Home at CMC

Kellie Tucker served in the Navy and confessed it took her a long time before she felt like she belonged and was a part of a team again.

“I’ve found ‘my people’ here at Cumberland Medical Center working in the Emergency Department,” said Tucker. “I have been nervous and doubted myself working as a nurse in other places, but nothing felt right. I now, know, that this is where I belong.”

CMC Emergency Department Manager Donna MacNeil also applauded Tucker, “You touched somebody. It wasn’t just your skills, it was the meaningful way you did. That’s what makes you exemplary for the DAISY Award.”

To learn about nursing career opportunities at Cumberland Medical Center, call 931-459-7253 or email [email protected].

About The DAISY Foundation Award

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at the age of 33, from complications of the auto-immune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP). During his eight-week hospital stay, his family was impressed by the care and compassion his nurses provided, not only to him but to everyone in the family. They created the DAISY Award in Pat’s memory to recognize those nurses who make a big difference in the lives of so many people.

CMC collaborated with The DAISY Foundation to debut the award locally. There are currently more than 3,000 healthcare facilities worldwide that present DAISY Awards. CMC nurses may be nominated for the DAISY Award by patients, families, and colleagues. Nominations are blinded for review by a committee composed of internal and external CMC members. To nominate a nurse, visit cmchealthcare.org/DAISY.