We’re proud to announce Ashley Pinkelton as the recipient of the DAISY Award at STRHS Pulaski- June 2025. The DAISY Award is a national recognition program that honors the extraordinary compassion nurses provide every day. Ashley’s nomination stood out as a beautiful reminder of what it truly means to care—not just medically, but emotionally and spiritually.

Ashley was nominated for her exceptional dedication to a hospice patient in his final days. She didn’t just treat his condition—she honored his humanity. One act that moved everyone was when Ashley shaved the patient, gently explaining that he “needed to be ready to meet Jesus.” That moment brought deep comfort to the family, reminding us all how meaningful the small things can be when done with love.

Her thoughtfulness doesn’t stop there. In another instance, Ashley noticed that a patient’s favorite pillow was torn. Instead of overlooking it, she took a suture kit from surgery and mended it herself. It wasn’t just about a pillow—it was about making someone feel seen and cared for.

Ashley exemplifies the spirit of nursing: compassionate, intuitive, and deeply human. Her actions speak louder than words, turning ordinary tasks into moments of dignity and connection.

The DAISY Award began in 1999 in memory of Patrick Barnes, who passed away from an autoimmune disease. His family was inspired by the extraordinary nurses who cared for him and created the DAISY Foundation to honor nurses like Ashley—who bring light and comfort into the lives of patients and families.

We’re honored to celebrate Ashley and thank her for the heart she brings to the bedside every day.