Deaconess Illinois Recognizes Daisy Award Recipients
Deaconess Illinois is proud to recognize Carol Erwin, RN, Administrative Director of Campus Operations/House Supervisor at Deaconess Illinois Medical Center, and Shelby Allen, RN, at Deaconess Illinois Crossroads Hospital, as recent recipients of The DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses — an international recognition program honoring nurses for the exceptional compassion and clinical care they provide every day.
Carol Erwin was nominated by the family of an ICU patient who experienced a life-threatening medical emergency during the Christmas holiday season. As the patient’s condition rapidly declined, the family faced the possibility that it could be their
loved one’s final Christmas together.
While the family described the clinical care provided by the ICU team as exceptional, they specifically recognized Carol for the compassion, leadership and humanity she demonstrated during one of the most difficult moments of their lives.
According to the nomination, Carol worked collaboratively with the care team to arrange a private hospital space where the patient and family could celebrate Christmas Eve together before the patient required transfer for additional specialized care.
What began as a simple request became an unforgettable act of compassion. Carol, alongside additional team members, helped transform the space into a warm and welcoming environment with Christmas decorations, lights, gifts, and personal touches that allowed the family to experience a meaningful holiday gathering despite the circumstances.
“It is difficult to put into words how meaningful that gesture was,” the family shared. “Amidst the stress and uncertainty, being able to take a deep breath, relax and enjoy one another’s company in a private and peaceful space meant more to us than I can express.”
The family also noted that Carol continued checking on them throughout the evening to ensure they had everything they needed, reinforcing how deeply she cared for both the patient and their loved ones.
“We will always remember this kindness and the comfort it brought our family,” the nomination concluded.
Shelby Allen, Registered Nurse on Medical/Surgical unit at Deaconess Illinois Crossroads was nominated by a patient who shared the meaningful impact Shelby had during a hospitalization involving severe pain and emotional distress.
The patient described arriving at the hospital feeling overwhelmed, frightened, and physically exhausted.
“When I came in, I was devastated. I couldn’t figure this out. My stomach ached and I was in so much pain,” the patient shared.
The nomination described the immediate comfort Shelby provided through her kindness, calming presence, and compassionate care.
“One day, a nurse came in with a beautiful smile and the sweet words to come out of her mouth soothed me,” the patient wrote. “I was less irritated, she was so kind, she’s awesome.”
Desiree Stumpf, Vice President of Nursing and Regional Chief Nursing Officer for Deaconess Illinois, praised both nurses for the extraordinary care they provide to patients and families.
“Carol Erwin and Shelby Allen exemplify the very heart of nursing,” Stumpf shared. “Whether through creating meaningful moments for families during incredibly emotional circumstances or offering comfort and compassion during vulnerable times, both nurses demonstrate the profound impact human connection can have in healthcare. Their dedication to patient-centered care reflects everything the DAISY Award represents, and we are incredibly proud to recognize them for this well-deserved honor.”
The DAISY Award is presented by The DAISY Foundation, a not-for-profit organization established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes to recognize nurses for the extraordinary work they do every day through compassionate, skillful care.
Deaconess Illinois is proud to celebrate nurses like Carol Erwin and Shelby Allen whose compassion, professionalism, and commitment help create exceptional patient experiences every day.
