Lead-Deadwood DAISY winner honored by friend, coworker, cancer patient

DEADWOOD, S.D. (Aug. 13, 2019) – Kaylee Cornelius, Registered Nurse at Monument Health Medical Clinic in Lead-Deadwood, has received the prestigious DAISY Award. Part of a national program, the award is presented twice a year to a Lead-Deadwood nurse who goes above and beyond for their patients and community.

Kaylee was nominated by Julie Elliot, friend, coworker and cancer patient. Julie, a caregiver at the Lead-Deadwood clinic, was diagnosed with breast cancer in March and underwent surgery. For seven weeks following surgery, Kaylee helped her change her dressings both in the clinic and at her home. She also helped her friend with household tasks and emotional support.

“Her love for what she does and care for me at the clinic and on her own time as a friend went over and above anything I have ever seen,” Julie wrote. “We are truly blessed to have her here. I knew her as a coworker before my cancer. I know her as a friend and coworker now. I am also cancer-free. Kaylee’s prayers along with so many others are the main reason why!”

The DAISY Award recognizes the outstanding professionalism and compassion that nurses bring to patients and families every day. It was established by the DAISY Foundation in California in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died at age 33 of an autoimmune disease. DAISY is an acronym for “diseases attacking the immune system.” Nurses in Rapid City are selected 12 times a year for this recognition. Nurses are also honored in Custer, Lead-Deadwood, Spearfish and Sturgis. Visit regionalhealth.org/daisy to nominate.

About Monument Health
Headquartered in Rapid City, S.D., Monument Health is a community-based health care system with a mission to make a difference, every day. Monument Health offers care in 33 medical specialties and serves 20 communities across western South Dakota and in eastern Wyoming. With over 4,500 physicians and caregivers, Monument Health is comprised of 5 hospitals, 8 specialty and surgical centers and more than 40 medical clinics and health care service centers.

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CONTACT:
Dan Daly
Communications Specialist
Strategic Marketing and Communications
Monument Health
605-755-9178
ddaly@monument.health