UNC Health Chatham Honors Lynn Emmons with DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses

UNC Health Chatham has honored nursing supervisor Lynn Emmons with the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses. A colleague nominated Emmons for the calm, capable support she provided during an especially demanding day at the hospital.

The nominator described a day that included a Code Blue, two rapid responses, staffing challenges and several patients who required higher levels of care. Through it all, Emmons stepped in wherever she was needed—gathering supplies, drawing labs, placing IVs and assisting with patient care while continuing to fulfill her responsibilities as supervisor.

“Lynn was phenomenal at being wherever she was needed,” her co-worker wrote. “Thank you, Lynn, for wearing many hats with a smile.”

For Emmons, the recognition represents far more than a single act of extraordinary care.

“You go day after day giving your best and never expecting recognition,” Emmons said. “Receiving the DAISY Award is so meaningful because it celebrates not just one moment, but all of those days, years and experiences spent caring for others.”

Emmons’ recognition reflects the teamwork, adaptability and compassionate leadership that strengthen patient care across UNC Health Chatham. Her ability to respond to immediate clinical needs while maintaining oversight of hospital operations embodies the spirit of the DAISY Award.

“Lynn exemplifies the very best of nursing leadership,” said Thresa Hardy, Chief Nursing Officer, UNC Health Chatham. “Her calm presence, willingness to step in wherever she is needed and unwavering commitment to patients and teammates make a meaningful difference every day. Whether supporting bedside care, mentoring fellow nurses or helping navigate challenging situations, Lynn reflects the compassion, professionalism and dedication that define exceptional nursing. We are proud to recognize her with the DAISY Award.”

As a DAISY Award honoree, Emmons received a certificate, an award pin and a hand-carved Healer’s Touch sculpture. Created by artists in Zimbabwe, the sculpture symbolizes the relationship and shared support among nurses as they care for patients and one another. Cinnamon rolls were also shared as part of a DAISY tradition inspired by J. Patrick Barnes, in whose memory the award was established.

The DAISY Foundation was established in 1999 by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 from complications of idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, an autoimmune disease. His family created the award to recognize nurses who provide exceptional clinical care with extraordinary compassion, as Patrick’s nurses did for him and his family. DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.