Donisha Gardner, RN, BSN graduated from Hampton University in 2010 and joined the VCU Health System in January 2011 as a new graduate nurse participating in our Nurse Residency program. Below is an excerpt from one of the seven nominations she received for the DAISY award.

“Donisha blew all of us away with her amazing bedside manner – she was able to intuitively know exactly what her patient needed in her final days with us. She was able to give us good info. We could understand while being so caring at the same time.

The night of Wed., July 27 we wanted to sing certain songs to the patient and we didn’t know all the words. She returned shortly with a computer with the lyrics pulled up on you tube & printed out lyrics as well. Our group of 7 friends and family was able to sing to the patient for hours using that computer. It meant so much to us as music was a big part of her life.

Donisha (and the other nurses) never complained about the obstacle course that our large group created in the room either. All of the nurses have been amazing and Donisha is a shining star. She is truly gifted as a nurse. Thank you All!”