Name: Donna Smith, RN

Department: 4 North Pulmonology

Recipient: June of 2006

Nominated by: Employee - Becky Burgess

This is the award-winning letter sent to Donna Smith, RN:
I believe that Donna Smith, RN should get the Daisy Award. I have worked with Donna for a few years and in that time have come to know her as a knowledgable, compassionate and outstanding Nurse. She is always willing to help and I know I can ask her advice about anything in regards to my patients.
I found myself in the Hospital last Fall. Of course I requested Donna's section. She made my stay so much better, helping with my fear of surgery and attending expertly to my care.
In January my Mother became seriously ill and was admitted to the U. of M. Hopsital in Ann Arbor. She was then admitted to Genesys twice and then down to U. of M. for the last hospital stay. I would stand outside in February to call Donna and tell her what was going on with my Mom. She was always willing to listen and to give me advice.
Sadly the time came that U of M. could no longer help my Mom. She came home with Hospice Care. I called Donna many times while my Brothers and I took care of our Mom. She again gave much needed support.
Donna came over one night after work bringing coffee and donuts. My Mom was very sick by then but she enjoyed a bite of doughnut and Donna's visit.
The last night of my Mom's life I called Donna and she came over for 3 hours. She helped me to decide if and when I should give more morphine. I needed to be a Daughter not a Nurse and Donna again gave me the support I needed. Donna came as a friend and helped me through one of the most difficult and sad times in my life.
The Nurses Week song for 4 North became "Lean on Me". The first few lines of the song follow.
Lean on me
when you'r not strong and
I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on.
That is exactly how I felt toward Donna. I felt that I could lean on her anytime, she was my friend when I needed one the most, and she helped me to "carry on".
Words cannot express how she has helped me with so many things. I feel Donna Smith is deserving of the Daisy Award. Thank you Donna.