2023 Daisy Award winners

Emilie Canham – RN award

“Emilie is a gifted nurse who was willing to take on the challenge of learning the many (many!) complexities of psychopharmacology. She has exceptional clinical skills and knows the right questions to ask families when they contact her with a new problem that arises. Families adore her. They tell me frequently. She is able to meet them where they are at, making them feel heard and supported. In my mind, she is an exemplary of the very best of not only nursing, but of health care.” – Dr. Melanie Penner (nominator)

Louise Frydrych – Nurse Leader award

“Louise has demonstrated exceptional collaboration, creativity, strength-based care when working with the client, their family, and the interdisciplinary team. At the time of admission (for a particularly complex client), this client did not have OHIP and Louise worked diligently to advocate for community services for this client. Louise was always willing to problem solve with me whenever challenges with this client would come up and would always hold space for me to voice my frustrations and concerns in a safe and supportive way. On a personal note, I really appreciated when Louise reminded me about the importance of taking breaks and self-care on days when working with this client were particularly challenging.” – Emily Chan, RSW (nominator)

Karen Fabris Silva – RN award

“Karen is an integral member of our NMT (neuromotor) team. She is always organized, well prepared, and going out of her way to ensure that clinic runs smoothly. She builds easy rapport with parents and children. She is also cheerful and presents an eternal ‘can-do’ attitude. She is an excellent role model to all students on our team and is a supportive teacher.” – Dr. Rhea D’Costa (nominator)

Jorge Santos – RN award

“Jorge has been a nurse at Holland Bloorview for over 20 years on the complex care unit. He goes above and beyond to foster a therapeutic relationship and engage clients and families to reach their potential/goals. Laughter is often heard from client rooms when Jorge is providing care. A client (A.H.) has shared with us that ‘he is funny, has a good sense of humour, and he takes good care of his patients.’ Jorge is seen as a friendly face recognized by many throughout the building given his role as Hospital Charge Nurse (HCN) during the height of the pandemic. He continues to show dedication, compassion, and enthusiasm everyday when he comes to work. His colleagues admire him for his leadership, his humour, his dependability, and compassion.” – Sharin Maknojia, RN (nominator)