Bronson Recognizes Kalamazoo & Van Buren County Nurses with DAISY Awards
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses honors nurses who go above and beyond to provide exceptional care and patient experiences. Nominations come from the people who experience their care firsthand — patients, families and colleagues.
At Bronson, DAISY Awards are presented throughout the year to recognize nurses who make a meaningful difference across our organization. This fall, five nurses from Kalamazoo County — four from hospital settings and one from ambulatory care — received this special recognition, along with an ambulatory care nurse from Van Buren County.
Please join us in congratulating these remarkable caregivers and thanking them for their skill, compassion and dedication to those they serve.
DAISY Award Recipients
Anel Castro, BSN, RN
Labor & Delivery Unit, Bronson Methodist Hospital
Anel was nominated by a family who described her as a compassionate presence during one of the most difficult moments of their lives. The nominator, a fellow nurse, wrote, “From the gentle touch and the way you thoughtfully dimmed the lights to create a calming environment, to the time you took to explain everything in Spanish to my daughter-in-law, you went above and beyond. Your kindness, empathy and professionalism made a lasting impact on our family. You are a shining example of what it means to be a compassionate caregiver.” Read more about Anel.
Sarah de Jong (Wenke), BSN, RN
Emergency Department, Bronson Methodist Hospital
Patients describe Sarah as “a gem” who goes above and beyond to provide comfort and calmness during times of crisis. One nomination shared, “Sarah made such a difference while I was in the hospital being treated for an earth-shattering panic attack. She took extra time to listen, reassure me and calm me down like no one else could. I hope one day to be half the nurse she is.” Another patient noted her skill, kindness and positive attitude, writing, “She deserves this award for the way she truly cares and embodies everything a nurse should be.” Read more about Sarah.
Carrie Hart, RN
General Medical Unit, Bronson Methodist Hospital
Carrie was nominated by a patient’s spouse for her extraordinary kindness and empathy. After a long night in the ER, Carrie not only ensured the patient received personalized care but also extended that same compassion to the family. “Carrie treated my husband with such dignity and tenderness,” the nomination read. “She told him it was an honor and a privilege to serve him, and those words changed everything. She even left a handwritten note with a heart to remind him he was loved and cared for.” Read more about Carrie.
Katharine (Katy) Rock, RN
Observation Unit, Bronson Methodist Hospital
Katy was recognized by the daughter of a patient who shared a story of Katy’s dedication and advocacy. “After a long day of testing, my mom felt truly defeated. Katy stepped in with compassion and urgency, quickly arranging for the night shift doctor to come speak with us. Thanks to her, we finally had a plan and could rest easy. She went above and beyond to make sure my mom felt heard and cared for.” Read more about Katy.
Ambulatory DAISY Award Recipients
Alexis Jankowiak, BSN, RN
Bronson General Surgery Specialists
Alexis was honored for her outstanding contributions to patient care and safety through the development and implementation of Bronson’s new inpatient and ambulatory ileostomy protocol. Her attention to detail, proactive communication and deep clinical knowledge have improved patient outcomes and reduced readmissions. “Alexis stands up for patient safety, educates staff and exemplifies exactly what it is to be a model Bronson nurse.” Read more about Alexis.
Amber Zolp, BSN, RN
Ambulatory Care Manager, Bronson LakeView Practices
Amber was nominated for her dedication to supporting complex patients through chronic care management. Coworkers describe her as a collaborative, dependable and compassionate teammate who goes above and beyond to coordinate care. “Amber is essential to our office,” one coworker shared. “She’s proactive, resourceful and always ready to help — whether it’s assisting a patient in need or helping a colleague. We are so blessed to have her.” Read more about Amber.
DAISY Nurse Leader Award Recipient
Kristin Baas, BSN, RN
Nurse Manager, Cardiovascular Cath Lab, Interventional Radiology & Surgery Prep/Recovery, Bronson Methodist Hospital
Kristin was nominated for exemplifying the principles of servant leadership through humility, integrity and genuine care for her teams. Her coworker shared that she fosters a supportive, inclusive environment where staff feel valued, empowered and heard. Her leadership is defined by transparency, collaboration and a steadfast commitment to doing what is right. “Kristin’s leadership style is a beacon of excellence. She inspires trust, growth and resilience in everyone around her.” Read more about Kristin.
Honor a Bronson Nurse
To nominate a Bronson nurse for the DAISY Award, visit bronsonthankanurse.com. If you have experienced Bronson Positivity, share your story at bronsonpositivity.com. Your story can help bring Positivity and inspiration to others.
About the DAISY Award
The DAISY Award is supported by the not-for-profit DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Foundation. Bonnie and J. Mark Barnes created this foundation and award as a way to remember their son, J. Patrick Barnes. Patrick had a disease that attacked his body and was in the hospital for a long time. His nurses did such a great job with him that the Barnes family created an award that continues to recognize the excellent work nurses do every day.
