FORT WAYNE, Ind.-- On Monday, seven Parkview nurses, recognized for their extraordinary nursing, were awarded by The DAISY Foundation. 

The DAISY Foundation was founded in memory of Patrick Barnes, a 33-year-old man who spent eight weeks in a hospital being treated for an autoimmune disorder. In his memory, his family created The DAISY Foundation out of appreciation for the excellent care that Patrick received in their care. 

The award recognizes nurses for their excellent contribution and providing a spirit others will call inspiring. All while enforcing the importance of care and ethical values as a health care provider. Between Oct. 1 and Dec. 31, the following seven nurses received DAISY awards:  

• Heidi Elyea-Schulenberg, ortho trauma, Parkview Regional Medical Center  

• Kendra Hantz, OP infusion area, Parkview Packnett Family Cancer Institute 

• Brandy Hicks, orthopedics, Parkview Ortho Hospital  

• Salim Idriss, emergency department, Parkview Regional Medical Center 

• Caitlin Kenny, labor and delivery, Parkview Women’s and Children’s Hospital 

• Jessica Klausing, family birthing center, Parkview Kosciusko Hospital 

• Dena Short, family birthing center, Parkview Hospital Randallia 

“I have been blessed to care for many patients and their families during some of the most difficult times in my nine years as a nurse,” Hantz said. “I didn’t realize the impact I was making as I thought I was just doing what I do every day for all my patients. This reminds me how much of an impact nurses have on our patients and their families each time they are in our care. This recognition will forever leave an impression in my life.”

Since 2021, in total 81 Parkview nurses have been honored with a DAISY award, including 27 new recipients in 2024.