Published on March 31, 2026

Deeply Grateful for the Way She Cared for My Son and for Us as Parents

McKenzie McDaniel, a nurse, smiling in a hospital hallway in front of a DAISY Award banner.

This past weekend, my son, Sonny, was seen at Bronson for croup. From the moment we arrived, nurse McKenzie McDaniel was the sweetest and most caring nurse I have ever encountered at Bronson. She immediately connected with Sonny. She was friendly, silly, and playful in a way that tapped into his personality and helped him feel comfortable during what could have been a very scary visit.

In the rush to leave the house, we forgot to bring diapers. Without hesitation, McKenzie brought us some so we did not have to stress or leave the room. She also showed such thoughtfulness in the way she gave him his medication. She mixed it in a sippy cup of juice so he did not even realize he was taking it. That one simple act spared him and us unnecessary fear and tears.

McKenzie’s kindness, attention to detail, and ability to meet a child where they are emotionally made such a difference in our experience. She turned an anxious situation into a calm and reassuring one. I am deeply grateful for the way she cared for my son and for us as parents. She is exactly the kind of nurse the DAISY Award is meant to recognize.


McKenzie McDaniel, BSN, RN, is a nurse in the Bronson Methodist Hospital Emergency Department. She is a recipient of the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. To nominate a Bronson nurse for the award, visit Nominate a nurse for the DAISY Award.

Reviewed by Anonymous, Family Member