On December 7, 2021, Michelle Colby, Retreat Clinic RN, became the very first Detox nurse to receive a DAISY award in recognition of extraordinary nurses.
Michelle’s passion, perseverance and relentless care for others truly made the difference between life and death for a patient who nominated her after sharing the following incredible story:
“I came here in November 2020 unresponsive. Narcaned me and tried to wake me, but ultimately, I had to go to the hospital for a few hours. I came back and she was completely supportive and never judged me once. Not once did she make me feel like I was less than or not worth it. She cared for me, until I was back on my feet, and called me several times post-detox to check on me. I made it a full year sober after that.
“I will forever be grateful for her during this time, and I still think about her as the best nurse I’ve ever has. I am excited for years of sobriety ahead of me and I can’t wait to tell Michelle when I am 10 years sober and remember her as the nurse that helped save my life. Thank you, Michelle; I will always remember you.”
The DAISY award consists of a pin, sculpture and recognition on both DAISY’s International website and here at Pine Rest. Michelle’s award was presented during a recognition ceremony at Pine Rest on December 7, 2021. Among those who celebrated with her were Dr. Mark Eastburg, Pine Rest President & Chief Executive Officer, Gretchen Johnson, Chief Nurse Executive, and Dr. Scott Halstead, Vice President of Outpatient & Recovery Services.
“I think it was our largest recognition ever,” recalls a fellow Hospital & Residential Services staffer. “She was so surprised, and so many attended this celebration for her.”To view other DAISY award recipients or to nominate an extraordinary Pine Rest nurse, visit the DAISY Nomination section of our website.
