Amanda Walton Receives WCHS’s Daisy Award

The Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) proudly honors Nurse Amanda Walton as the recipient of the 2025 Quarter 1 DAISY Award® for Extraordinary Nurses. In a moving ceremony, WCHS celebrated Amanda’s remarkable achievement, alongside the invaluable contributions of all its nursing staff, recognizing their unwavering dedication to patients and families. 

Since its establishment in 1999 by the Barnes family, the DAISY Foundation has become a symbol of gratitude for the extraordinary care nurses provide. The foundation was created in memory of Patrick Barnes, whose family was deeply moved by the compassionate care he received during his illness. The DAISY Award® was born from this legacy, honoring the exceptional dedication and skill of nurses across the globe. 

Amanda Walton was selected from a group of outstanding nominees by WCHS’s DAISY committee. Her nominator highlighted her exceptional ability to consistently provide compassionate, skillful, and patient-centered care saying, “Her energy and smiles are contagious. When I’d come for a different appointment I would have questions, and she would always come out to talk to me and help me. She always asks if I have everything I need for home, like equipment to help me walk, etc. Anytime I would call just to update on what was going on with me and my surgeries, she always paid attention because when I would come in for an appointment, my doctor was well informed due to Amanda’s attentive care.” Amanda’s commitment to nursing excellence, combined with her dedication and attention to detail in patient care, has left an indelible impact on her patients and colleagues alike. 

During the awards ceremony on Monday, January 13th, Amanda was surprised and humbled as she was celebrated by her peers and WCHS leadership. Sara McIntosh, Chief Nursing Officer, shared, “Amanda stands out as a shining example of nursing excellence. Her commitment to delivering exceptional care, as described by her nominator, reflects her profound empathy, skill, and dedication. Amanda embodies the true spirit of nursing, ensuring her patients feel cared for and valued in every interaction.” 

What began as a single family’s gesture of gratitude has evolved into a global movement embraced by healthcare organizations worldwide. At WCHS, the DAISY Award® remains a cornerstone of our commitment to recognizing and honoring exceptional nurses like Amanda Walton, who exemplify compassion, excellence, and the highest standards of patient care.