Recognizing this Year’s DAISY and Sunflower Award Winners

Since 2009, Moffitt Cancer Center has celebrated its nurses who uphold the highest standards of patient care with the DAISY Award. This prestigious accolade honors nurses who consistently demonstrate empathy, kindness and a profound sense of responsibility in their daily work.

Alongside the DAISY Award, Moffitt also recognizes the exceptional efforts of medical assistants and oncology technicians, who are integral to patient care and support, by presenting them with the Sunflower Award.

These awards recognize the extraordinary dedication, compassion and excellence demonstrated by nurses and health care professionals who go above and beyond in their roles. Selections are made twice a year, and winners are nominated by patients and their families who have witnessed their remarkable contributions firsthand.

Meet this year’s DAISY Award recipients:

Beth Nussel 

Since joining the outpatient infusion center in October 2007, Beth Nussel has been celebrated for her unwavering dedication to patient-centered care. Her ability to foster a supportive and healing environment is exceptional. Inspired by her own experience with her mother's battle with cancer, she is committed to delivering the highest level of professional and compassionate care to her patients.

Patients share that while she knows their fears, she still greets them with a smile and a positive outlook, adding that Nussel is now a part of their story.

“Working in blood draw means we are the first stop on most patients start to their cancer journey.  Most of the time people are scared, overwhelmed and a bit lost on their understanding of the whole experience.  Some need education, some need guidance and some just need a listening ear and a kind heart of reassurance that they are in the best place they could be,” Nussel explained.

Rowena Hancock

Rowana Hancock recieves the 2024 DAISY Award for her commitment to patient care.

Rowena Hancock joined Moffitt in April 2023 and has quickly made a remarkable impact. In a short time, she has earned the admiration of her colleagues and patients alike, garnering multiple nominations for this prestigious award.

She is honored for her outstanding contributions to supporting patients and families through challenging times. “Working at Moffitt is not just a profession or a job, it is a calling that allows me to make a real difference in the lives of my patients. I feel truly blessed to be a part in their healing process,” Hancock said.

After receiving treatment, Hancock had a patient who felt like they were at the lowest point in their life. The patient states that while they were depressed and cranky, Hancock always came with encouraging words and a sympathetic ear, answering all of their questions with knowledge and compassion.

The Sunflower Award recipients:

Lexi DeBell

Lexi DeBell looks forward to meeting new patients and making them feel more comfortable.

Lexi DeBell works as an oncology tech and is one year away from graduating nursing school with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. She enjoys hearing the stories of her patients and being able to help them in any way. “I look forward to coming into work every day to meet new patients and make them feel as comfortable as I can,” DeBell said.

She is celebrated for her kindness, efficiency and willingness to assist both patients and team members, making her an invaluable part of the health care team.

“Her devotion to her job is incredible. She jumped at the opportunity to help whenever possible and always with a cheerful friendly disposition that was true and sincere. Her support for other team members was always clear with the expectation to assist the patient in any way possible. Her ‘can do attitude’ is a credit to the Moffitt brand,” said DeBell’s patient.

Zena Omer

Zena Omer works as a medical assistant in the Neuro-Oncology Department. She is motivated not only by observing how physicians treat health conditions but also by witnessing their empathy and presence during patients' difficult times. She is celebrated for her exceptional ability to connect with patients and provide personalized care, ensuring that each individual feels valued and heard.

Zena Omer receives the Sunflower Award for her work in the Neuro-Oncology Department.

Her patients describe her as kind and genuine, stating that while receiving weekly cancer treatments can be difficult, she makes it easy and quick. Noting that she wears a smile on her face that puts them at ease.

 “The status or role of a health care member does not determine the level of care and compassion one can offer to a patient. All it takes is a small meaningful encounter and a smile to make the world of a difference to a patient,” Omer said.  

These awards serve as a reminder of the critical role that health care professionals play in the lives of their patients. Their stories of dedication and excellence inspire us all and highlight the incredible difference that they make every day and the importance of recognizing their contributions.