Parker Banks, LPN, was honored with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses at UNC Health Rockingham last week. Hospital nursing leadership along with senior administrators gathered on the unit to celebrate Banks along with her fellow nursing and hospitalist teammates and many of her family members.

A DAISY Award nomination for Banks came from the family member of a patient who faced multiple health challenges, including a fall that led to a hip fracture and a difficult surgery. Throughout this challenging time, Banks stood out to the family for the exceptional care she provided to their loved one - always visible, attentive, and compassionate. She demonstrated professionalism and kindness in every interaction, from patiently assisting with medication to offering comforting words before surgery. The family praised Banks’ dedication, gentle approach, and reassuring presence, noting that her actions made a meaningful difference during a stressful experience.   

When asked what the award means to her, Banks stated “Receiving the DAISY Award as a new nurse means so much - it reminds me that I’m making a difference. Nursing has always been my dream, inspired by my mom, and I’m grateful to work with such a supportive team at UNC Health Rockingham.”

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes who died from complications of the autoimmune disease Idiopathic Thrombocytopenia Purpura (ITP) at the age of thirty-three. His family wanted a meaningful way to recognize and honor nurses who, like those caring for Patrick and his family, provide excellent clinical care while showing great compassion for their patients. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem.

To nominate a nurse for The DAISY Award^® at UNC Health Rockingham, visit www.uncrockingham.org/thank-a-caregiver.

Photo Caption: DAISY Award^® Recipient, Parker Banks, LPN (center), was celebrated by her teammates, hospitalists and hospital leadership.