Riverwood Healthcare Center is proud to recognize registered nurse Andrea (Andi) Barneveld as a recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an international recognition program honoring nurses who provide exceptional, compassionate care.
Andi was nominated by Deanna Bredt, who was admitted to Riverwood following an emergency room visit that led to an unexpected hospitalization.
Bredt described feeling overwhelmed, vulnerable, and anxious as she navigated an unfamiliar medical situation.
“From the moment Andi began my intake, everything changed,” Bredt wrote in her nomination. “She met me with such genuine kindness, patience, and understanding that I felt seen as a person, not just a patient. Her calm presence and gentle reassurance brought me a sense of comfort I didn’t even realize I needed.”
Throughout her hospital stay, Andi consistently provided skilled nursing care while also offering the emotional support Bredt needed.
“What I will never forget is how she helped me get through it with compassion, patience, and quiet strength,” Bredt shared. “In one of my most vulnerable moments, Andi brought me comfort, dignity, and reassurance. If I ever find myself in that position again, I can only hope to have someone like her by my side.”
The DAISY Award recognizes nurses who demonstrate extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care, leaving a lasting impact on patients and families.
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, visit Riverwood’s website or contact Carla Zupko at czupko@rwhealth.org.