Riverwood Healthcare Center is proud to celebrate RN Gordon “Gordy” Schwartz, recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. The DAISY Award is a national recognition honoring nurses who demonstrate exceptional dedication to patients.
Gordy was nominated by the wife of a patient he cared for during two Emergency Department visits. When the patient returned, Gordy recognized him and knew a closer look was needed. Through his clinical expertise and strong patient advocacy, Gordy helped identify a serious condition that ultimately required emergency surgery.
After finishing a 12-hour shift, Gordy stayed with the patient and his wife until surgery, offering support and answering every question. In her nomination, the patient’s wife said Gordy’s presence and extraordinary compassion brought comfort during one of the most stressful moments their family has faced.
“Gordy exemplifies what the DAISY Award is all about,” said Carla Zupko, Chief Nursing Officer. “His patient-centered approach and diligence reflect the very best of nursing at Riverwood.”
The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation, based in Glen Ellen, CA, was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick died at age 33 in 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little-known but not uncommon autoimmune disease. The compassionate care Patrick and his family received from nurses during his illness inspired this meaningful way to thank nurses for the profound impact they have on patients and families.
The DAISY Award and DAISY Team Award are initiatives of The DAISY Foundation in service to the nursing profession. In addition, the Foundation offers J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects, the DAISY Faculty Award to recognize inspiring nursing faculty, and the DAISY in Training Award for nursing students.
For more information about the DAISY Award or to nominate a nurse for exceptional care, visit Riverwood’s website or contact Carla Zupko at czupko@rwhealth.org.