Kelsey Horne Named May 2025 DAISY Recipient

Catawba Valley Medical Center is proud to announce this quarter’s DAISY Award Recipient. The DAISY Award is designed to recognize exceptional nursing care. Join us in congratulating Kelsey Horne, who serves as a nurse in our Critical Care Unit.

Kelsey’s nomination included how caring she is, treating her patients like a member of her family. The nomination said “On that frightening October night, my beloved grandmother arrived with her heart racing dangerously at 160-150 beats per minute. In those terrifying moments, we were blessed with an angel in scrubs named Kelsey. She wasn’t just a nurse – she became our guardian, our comfort, our rock. Throughout the long, anxious night, Kelsey watched over my Mamaw with the tenderness of a daughter. Every time she entered the room, her gentle presence brought a wave of relief. She didn’t just monitor vitals and call doctors; she cared for our hearts too, understanding the deep love between a grandmother and granddaughter. What touched me most was how Kelsey made my Mamaw feel safe and cherished. Each time I saw worry cross my grandmother’s face, Kelsey was there with a reassuring smile and kind words. She answered my endless questions not with impatience, but with compassion that wrapped around us like a warm blanket. In Kelsey, I saw what true nursing means – not just medical expertise, but a beautiful heart that holds space for both healing and hope. Her confidence wasn’t just professional skill; it was a gift that helped us believe everything would be okay. In those vulnerable hours, she wasn’t just caring for my Mamaw’s health; she was protecting our peace of mind, and for that, we’ll be forever grateful.”

The DAISY Foundation was established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died of complications of the auto-immune disease ITP in 1999. During his hospitalization, they deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. The award is given in numerous countries around the world. To learn more, visit DAISYFoundation.org.

If you would like to nominate someone to receive the DAISY Award, visit CatawbaValleyHealth.org/DAISY.