HEALTH WATCH: Rockledge Regional Medical Center ICU Nurse Earns Prestigious DAISY Award

Accolade honors ‘super-human work nurses do for patients and families every day’

BREVARD COUNTY • ROCKLEDGE, FLORIDA – Charity Mills, an ICU nurse at Rockledge Regional Medical Center, was awarded the prestigious DAISY Award, presented by the DAISY Foundation to recognize the “super-human work nurses do for patients and families every day,” according to the foundation’s website.

Mills has been an ICU nurse at Rockledge Regional since 2014.

Mills was nominated by two patients who were admitted to Rockledge Regional – one for a heart-stent procedure and the other for bypass surgery – earlier this year.

The second patient called Mills an “angel,” saying “she is a true asset to her team/hospital and her profession. … I will remember you always.”

“Being a nurse is more than a job for Charity,” said Ruth Long, director of critical care/ICU.

“She’s what I call the total package, meaning she’s clinically strong and compassionate and kind toward patients and families. Charity is a tireless patient advocate and takes extra time to explain situations to patients and their families.”

Long also noted that Mills is a “phenomenal baker” and often treats associates with gorgeous cakes, which not only taste great but also serve as a huge morale booster.

“She is a team player and all associates are fond of her,” Long said.

“She always assists her co-workers and has a ‘what can I do for you’ state of mind. Co-workers always know they will have a good day if Charity is on the floor.”

As an honoree, Mills receives reduced tuition for continuing education and discounts for certain nurses’ certifications and conferences, among other benefits. The foundation also will recognize Mills via social media.

Mills was presented the award on March 30 at Rockledge Regional, surrounded by about 30 fellow associates. She was given a hand-carved sculpture, a certificate and pin signifying her achievement at the ceremony.

“I’m stunned to receive this recognition,” said Mills, beaming with a radiant smile.

“It’s a great honor. I know how much of an impact a hospital stay can have on patients and their families. My goal is to comfort them as much as I can during this traumatic time in their lives.”

The not-for-profit DAISY Foundation, based in Glen Ellen, CA, was established by family members in memory of J. Patrick Barnes.

Barnes died at the age of 33 in 1999 from complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, a little-known but common autoimmune disease.

The care Barnes and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this award to thank nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of patients and their families.

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