James Gonser, registered nurse at CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga, has received the Daisy Award for Extraordinary Nurses.
 
Family members of two patients nominated Mr. Gonser for the "gentle way he put their loved ones at ease."  One family stated how Mr. Gonser went above and beyond to provide excellent care for their mother. “She was scared and anxious and in a lot of pain and he was patient and so very kind to her.  He listened to her stories and explained every procedure, medication, and test carefully and in easy terms so that she could understand.  He made her laugh through her tears in a very difficult time and we are so thankful for his care,” they said.
 
Another patient’s family says Mr. Gonser shared a personal story that helped ease their father’s concern about his illness. “This changed my father’s outlook considerably.  My dad took an immediate liking to James and relayed his story to all who visited.  I believe that by James relating his story, it gave my dad hope for a similar recovery.  James was an inspiration to my dad throughout his stay at [CHI] Memorial and anytime he came around, my dad would visibly brighten up… James is the embodiment of all things right in the nursing profession.  We will never forget the kind words and treatment that he gave my dad and our family,” the family member stated.    
 
Mr. Gonser works in the Guerry Heart and Vascular Tower at CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga.  He has worked for CHI Memorial since 2007.
 
"CHI Memorial is pleased to partner with the DAISY Foundation to recognize the extraordinary difference nurses make in the lives of patients and co-workers. Nurses are chosen each month to receive this wonderful award that honors compassionate care," officials said.  "At a presentation attended by the nurse’s colleagues, physicians, patients, leaders and visitors, the honoree receives a certificate commending which reads, 'In deep appreciation of all you do, who you are, and the incredibly meaningful difference you make in the lives of so many people.' The honoree is also given a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Africa, a daisy bouquet, and a copy of her/his nomination letter. The honoree's nursing unit receives a cinnamon doughnut party because it takes a team for a nurse to achieve his/her best. Tasty Doughnuts generously donates the treats for this worthy cause."