Rachel Pilson, RN of Sovah Health – Martinsville was honored recently with The DAISY Award® For Extraordinary Nurses. The award is part of the DAISY Foundation's programs to recognize the super-human efforts nurses perform every day. 

Rachel, who works in the employee health department at Sovah Health – Martinsville’s campus, was nominated by a colleague who credits the nurse for going above and beyond her duties. “Rachel is a hidden gem in our hospital. Rachel took over my care and advocated for me after I was involved in a work-related injury. She showed true genuine concern, took care of my paperwork, and truly worked in my best interest. I was not just another employee, but a patient whom she cared for like family. She made a horrible experience one that I will always be thankful for.” Moments like this truly showcase what an exceptional nurse Rachel is.

The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation is based in Glen Ellen, CA, and was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes.  Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease.  The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. 

"When Patrick was critically ill, our family experienced first-hand the remarkable skill and care nurses provide patients every day and night,” said Bonnie Barnes, FAAN, CEO and Co-Founder of The DAISY Foundation. “Yet these unsung heroes are seldom recognized for the super-human work they do.  The kind of work the nurses at Sovah Health are called on to do every day epitomizes the purpose of The DAISY Award.”

“Rachel exemplifies the heart of nursing—compassionate, skilled, and deeply committed to her patients and colleagues,” said Shelly Cordum, Market Chief Nursing Officer at Sovah Health. “Her recognition with the DAISY Award is a testament to the extraordinary care she provides every day. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of our team.”

To nominate a Sovah Health nurse for the DAISY Award, visit our website at SovahHealth.com/daisy-award.