Saint Mary’s Regional Health System is proud to celebrate two meaningful DAISY honors within its Women’s & Children’s Unit: the entire unit has been awarded the DAISY Team Award, and Mikayla Brandon, RN, has received this quarter’s individual DAISY Award for her exceptional care and clinical excellence. 

These national awards recognize nursing professionals who go above and beyond to provide extraordinary patient experiences. Both honors stemmed from the same powerful story—a first-time mother’s emergency delivery, during which quick action, teamwork and deep compassion made all the difference. 

The nomination for the DAISY Team Award describes how the nursing staff sprang into action during an unanticipated emergency C-section. “Only true angels and the hands of God can perform something so serious in such a quick time with the best of best outcomes,” the patient wrote. “My son is here today because of this team.” 

Nurses Megan Goodenbour, Taylor Tebben, Claire Chambless and Mikayla Brandon were praised for their swift responses, clear communication and emotional support. The patient emphasized how the staff worked seamlessly with Dr. Escue and Dr. Massey to ensure a safe delivery, adding, “Our story is able to be told because of this team.” 

Mikayla Brandon, who served as the primary nurse, was nominated separately for the individual DAISY Award. The patient recalled how Mikayla’s calm presence helped her remain composed—even as her baby experienced sudden heart rate changes. “I never panicked because of Mikayla’s calmness,” she wrote. “She will forever be part of my son’s birth story, and I am thankful to her every day when I look at him.” 

After assisting with the emergency delivery, Mikayla remained at the patient’s side post-operatively, offering reassurance, clinical care and support to both mother and baby. 

“Our Women’s & Children’s Unit embodies our mission of making communities healthier®,” said Carolyn Cook, Chief Nursing Officer at Saint Mary’s. “They work together to bring comfort, confidence and compassionate care to patients during some of the most vulnerable and joyful moments in life. Mikayla’s recognition reflects the individual compassion that makes this team truly outstanding.” 

To learn more or to nominate a nurse for the DAISY Award, visit  SaintMarysRegional.com/daisy.