Donna Harrisberger, RN, Myeloma Clinic, 8th floor, Cancer Institute
Please join the Center for Nursing Excellence in congratulating Donna Harrisberger, RN, for being selected as the DAISY Award recipient for the month of May!
Donna Harrisberger, RN, Myeloma Clinic, 8th floor, Cancer Institute, and was nominated by a co-worker. The nomination below reflects how Donna impacted their life in a very special way.
Nomination:
Donna has shown compassion, empathy, and selfless dedication that defines. One recent experience clearly reflects the depth of her character and her unwavering commitment to patient-centered care.
A frail, elderly patient was dropped off at our clinic by insurance transportation for evaluation and subsequent hospital admission. He arrived alone, without family support, and had no financial means to purchase food. He was physically weak, vulnerable, and facing hospitalization without an advocate at his side. Donna immediately recognized not only his medical needs, but also his human needs. Without hesitation, she personally escorted him to the hospital admissions to ensure he arrived safely and was properly checked in. Understanding that he had not eaten and had no ability to obtain food on his own, Donna purchased him lunch with her own money. She did this quietly, without expectation of recognition, simply because she saw a need and chose to meet it.
This act may seem small to some, but to that patient it meant dignity, nourishment, comfort, and reassurance that he was not alone. In that moment, Donna embodied what nursing is truly about — seeing the whole person and responding with kindness and action.
This demonstrates:
- Advocacy for vulnerable and elderly patients who may not have family present
- Calm, reassuring communication during stressful admissions and transitions of care
- A willingness to go beyond assigned duties to ensure patient safety and comfort
- Respect for patient dignity, particularly in those who are frail or socially isolated
- Teamwork and leadership that foster a culture of compassion within our clinic
Donna’s actions reflect the very heart of this mission. Her compassion is not performative; it is instinctive. Her kindness is not situational; it is consistent. This is a great example of why nursing is both a science and a calling.
Thank you, Payton!