Brad Root, RN, H4 – Trauma Surgical Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit
Please join the Center for Nursing Excellence in congratulating Brad Root, RN, for being selected as the DAISY Award recipient for the month of August!
Brad Root, RN, H4 – Trauma Surgical Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit and was nominated by a Family Member of a Patient. The nomination below reflects how Brad impacted their lives in a very special way.
Nomination:
I would like to nominate Brad, who cared for my father, John Gross, in the SICU at UAMS on May 27 and May 28, 2026, for the DAISY Award. Brad cared for my father and our family during the final two days and hours of my father’s life. What was an overwhelming and frightening experience was made more bearable because of Brad’s extraordinary compassion, patience, professionalism, and genuine concern for both his patient and our family.
Throughout my daddy’s stay, Brad treated him with remarkable dignity and respect. He spoke directly to Daddy before every procedure, explaining what he was doing and why, even when Dad could no longer fully respond. Brad never stopped treating him as a person deserving of honor, respect, dignity, and compassionate care.
One of the things that meant the most to our family was the time Brad spent with me, my mother, and my brother explaining the palliative care process. He patiently walked us through each step of what Dad was experiencing as he transitioned toward his eternal home. He kept Dad sedated and comfortable, answered our questions with honesty and kindness, helping us understand what was happening while also providing comfort during an incredibly difficult time. The moment that will remain with me forever occurred during Daddy’s final minutes. Hospice staff had arrived and were speaking with my mother when Daddy began actively dying. Brad immediately recognized what was happening, rushed into the room, respectfully asked the hospice staff to step out, and stayed with our family. He remained by our side, guiding us through those sacred moments and ensuring that Daddy was not alone. His presence brought a sense of peace and comfort during the most heartbreaking experience of our lives. Brad stayed with us until after Daddy took his last breath, providing care and compassion that I will never forget.
I have battled cancer five times, spent much of my life in hospitals, and worked in a hospital setting for nearly eleven years. Because of those experiences, I have encountered countless healthcare professionals and witnessed many examples of excellent care. Yet, I can honestly say that I have never witnessed the level of compassion, dignity, patience, and humanity that Brad provided to my dad and our family. The days surrounding daddy’s passing were the most difficult of our lives, but Brad’s extraordinary nursing care made an immeasurable difference. He cared not only for his patient but also for the family who loved him. His actions exemplify the very best of nursing and the values represented by the DAISY Award.
Our family will forever be grateful for the comfort, guidance, and compassion Brad showed us as we said goodbye to our beloved daddy. He is exceptionally deserving of this recognition.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Kristi Lowery and Family
Thank you, Brad!