Cathy Maisano, RN, CCM Receives DAISY Award

National program recognizes extraordinary nurses

Cathy Maisano, RN, CCM of the University of Vermont Health Network – Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital’s (CVPH) was honored with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses ® on Friday, October 12 at CVPH.  Based on nominations from patients, their families and coworkers, the DAISY Award is part of a nation-wide initiative spearheaded by the DAISY Foundation to recognize and reward nurses for making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who turn to them for care. 

Maisano received the honor after being nominated for her part in helping a patient’s loved one. The patient had been admitted to the hospital unexpectedly and his fiancé stayed by his side. The couple lived more than 60 miles from Plattsburgh and had limited means.  After learning that the woman did not have a change of clothes, Maisano purchased clothing so she could remain with her partner.  

In the nomination letter written by colleague Holly Carter, RN, Maisano was called compassionate, selfless and a wonderful patient advocate. She added that Maisano purchased the clothing with her own funds and that it’s not the first time she had done this for patients or patient family members. 

CVPH Chief Nursing Officer Carrie Howard Canning said, “It is a pleasure to recognize and honor Cathy as our most recent Daisy Awardee.  Cathy has longevity here and brings advocacy, humility and compassion to her work every day in Case Management.  The story for which she was nominated and recognized is a true testament to who Cathy is as an individual and as a nurse.  She cares for every patient and family as if they are part of her family and this behavior has far and lasting influence throughout our organization.  We are lucky to work alongside Cathy every day.” 

Having worked at CVPH for nearly 40 years, Maisano began her nursing career as a medical surgical nurse. She then served 14 ½ years as a nurse manager and for the past 21 years she has been an integral part of the Case Management team assigned to the R6 nursing unit. As a Case Manager she coordinates patient care, ensures proper utilization of services and provides assistance with discharge needs.

To nominate a CVPH licensed nurse for The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses go online to UVMHealth.org/CVPHDAISY. Drop boxes and paper forms are also located at each of the hospital’s main entrances.  A committee of CVPH employees reviews nominations and awards the honor quarterly to a deserving nurse celebrating with his or her peers and coworkers.

Photos and information about all recipients are located at DAISYFoundation.org. The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of 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 and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families.