Meet Our Daisy & BEE Award Winners

A patient nominated Diana for the award, detailing how her compassion and skills helped them through their inpatient stay: “This nurse has what it takes to work in psych. They can smile and laugh with patients but can also be no-nonsense when the situation calls for it. I was being treated for a psychiatric condition that made my stay on the unit extremely difficult. On more than one occasion I had to get my room searched or my body searched. It was very hard time for me. I didn't want to be alive. I didn't care about anything, and I gave up on pretending to care. This nurse was my nurse each time the searches happened. This nurse was very attentive, compassionate, and caring. This nurse had what it took to care about me when I couldn’t. This nurse said it’s their responsibility to care when I cannot. I'm forever grateful to them. Their kind demeanor and words of solace will never be forgotten.”

Cardesza received several nominations. Here's one from a colleague that highlights what makes her an extraordinary mental health worker: "Her compassion and empathy shines through in everything she does. She consistently goes above and beyond in her care for the children—not only by tending to their hygiene and personal needs with gentleness and respect, but also ensuring the environment around them is clean, safe, and comforting. Her dedication is unwavering. Every day, she shows up with purpose and a quiet strength, never seeking recognition but always earning it. She treats each child with dignity and kindness, and her presence brings a sense of calm and reassurance to both staff and families alike. Her work ethic, reliability, and genuine concern for others make her an invaluable part of the team. She doesn’t just do the work—she elevates the standard for what care should look like."