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Finger Lakes Health honored Pamela Washak, RN, who works in the Intensive Care Unit at Geneva General Hospital, with “The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses®.”

"During the pandemic, I have had numerous opportunities to observe care of many patients in the ICU. During the first wave of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 pneumonia, I observed Pam Washak working tirelessly in the dedicated COVID-19 unit. This was prior to the vaccine availability. I observed all of the nurses going in and out of patient rooms donning and doffing with each entry and exit, including Pam. I did not know Pam and when I introduced myself and asked her how things were going, she was always very positive despite the challenging times,” said Dr. Jason Feinberg.

Established by The DAISY Foundation, a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family, this award recognizes nurses who have had a profound impact in the lives of their patients and patient families. Patrick died at age 33 in 1999 from complications from Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System). The care Patrick received from the nurses at his bedside inspired this award.

If you have received extraordinary care by a nurse, or are a family member of someone who has been treated with great care, and would like to nominate her or him please visit:

Nomination boxes are also located throughout Geneva General Hospital and Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hospital.

Each honoree receives a certificate commending her or him as an "Extraordinary Nurse." The certificate 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." Honorees also receive a DAISY Award pin and a beautiful and meaningful sculpture called A Healer’s Touch, hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. At each DAISY Award celebration, delicious cinnamon rolls are served, as this was Patrick’s favorite treat and one of the few foods he could eat.