Linda Zappia, RN, registered nurse in Surgical Services department at Geneva General Hospital, has been honored with “The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses®.” Linda has worked for the health system for over 47 years.
Zappia’s nomination was submitted by a patient’s grateful family member. “Linda has a heart of gold and the most admirable work ethic. A true leader that remains humble, loyal and selfless. Linda goes above and beyond for her patients and is constantly putting patient’s needs over their own. It takes a special person to care for others and constantly have that helping mindset… that is Linda. I was at a family event recently when an elderly friend had a spell and passed out, Linda (not on duty) ran to assist and stabilize the women. Linda knew exactly what to do and how to handle the situation. Pretty scary for the rest of us as we were on the water and didn’t have medical services nearby. Linda jumped into action and not only comforted the patient but also put the rest of us at ease. Linda’s calmness and attentiveness is admirable. A true nurse no matter if working a shift or trying to have a day off. Linda also took care of my mother during multiple stays even followed up and checked on my mom’s recovery,” stated a patient’s grateful family member.
The DAISY Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family, recognizes nurses who have had a profound impact on the lives of their patients and patient families. Patrick died at age 33 in 1999 from complications from Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little-known but not uncommon autoimmune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System). The care Patrick received from the nurses at his bedside inspired this award.
If you have received extraordinary care from a nurse, or are a family member of someone who has been treated with great care, and would like to nominate her or him please visit:
http://www.daisynomination.org/0010g00001dcZE0AAM
Nomination boxes are also located throughout Geneva General Hospital and Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital.
Each honoree receives a certificate commending her or him as an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate reads: "In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people." Honorees also receive a DAISY Award pin and a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. At each DAISY Award celebration, delicious cinnamon rolls are served, as this was Patrick’s favorite treat and one of the few foods he could eat.