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“Cancer treatment is a trying experience. Little things make the biggest impact, and our oncology nurses are the absolute best at knowing how to make the experience more bearable,” said Anjal Pong, DNP, MSN, RN, NEA-BC, NPD-BC, CNOR, magnet director, Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center. Pong feels fortunate to work alongside nurses who bring that level of compassion to every patient interaction. One of them is her colleague, Ejere Elekwachi, BSN, RN, who has worked at Kaiser Permanente for 11 years and joined the oncology team at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center in 2022. His personable demeanor, professionalism, and clinical expertise helped earn Elekwachi a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an international recognition honoring exceptional nursing care. A steady and warm presence “I noticed right away that he was both highly skilled as a nurse and very good at interacting with people,” said a patient who nominated Elekwachi for a DAISY Award. Known for his warm, friendly approach, Elekwachi helps patients feel at ease while providing exceptional care. One patient who experienced that approach firsthand was recently diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma, a rare and aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. “Cancer is overwhelming, so I greet patients with a smile, a positive attitude, and friendly conversation. The last thing I want to do is add to their stress,” Elekwachi said. For Elekwachi, caring for patients goes beyond treatment. “Learning about their interests, careers, and lives outside of cancer helps form connections, making the experience more personal and supportive,” he said. Attention to every detail “He took more time than others when accessing my chemo port, making sure everything was positioned comfortably and wouldn’t be pulled if I moved,” the patient shared. “I don't rush when accessing a patient’s port,” Elekwachi stated. “I take the time to numb the area, secure a comfortable dressing, and ensure patients can move comfortably throughout their treatment.” This attention to detail is central to Elekwachi's approach to nursing. “I put myself in the patient’s shoes,” he added. “I ask myself how I would want to be treated if I were receiving chemotherapy.” Answering the call to care “I began working as a pharmacy technician and soon realized I was drawn to a more direct role in patient care,” Elekwachi shared. “When I transitioned to a patient care technician, I discovered how much I enjoyed working with patients.” “Watching people arrive seriously ill and leave stronger, healthier, and ready to return home confirmed that nursing was the right path for me,” Elekwachi said. Looking ahead “Whether it’s building relationships, helping a patient connect with a family member, assisting with everyday needs, or ensuring comfort during treatment, nurses should approach every interaction with compassion, expertise, and attention to detail,” Elekwachi said. “Earning a DAISY Award is especially meaningful because the patient who nominated me is now in remission,” he shared.

“From the moment Whitney received my mom as a patient, she treated her like family,” said the daughter of a patient who was hospitalized after a fall. Inspired by the care her mother received, the patient's daughter nominated Whitney Moore, BSN, RN, LVN, for The DAISY Award®, an international recognition for exceptional nursing care. A staff nurse in the medical-surgical unit at Kaiser Permanente Vacaville Medical Center, Moore credits her approach to simple but meaningful acts of connection. “I gave my patient my full attention by listening carefully and maintaining eye contact,” she said. Moore has been with Kaiser Permanente for seven years and a registered nurse for the past two. Care patients never forget “My patients may not recall every medical detail, but they will remember how I made them feel,” said Moore. To help patients feel comfortable and supported, Moore begins each visit by introducing herself and taking time to understand each patient's needs and concerns. “Are you in pain? Is there anything I can do for you right now? Do you need water? Do you need to use the bathroom?” she asks. “By addressing immediate needs, I help patients feel seen and heard. I also partner with patients to set daily goals that support their recovery.” When Moore’s patient was admitted after a fall that left her with limited mobility, her goal was to take a bath. Moore's goal was to help her sit at the edge of the bed, an important first step toward rebuilding her strength and independence. The care Moore provided left a lasting impression on the patient and her family. “She was the first nurse to bathe my mother,” the patient’s daughter said. “It refreshed her spirit and restored a sense of dignity during a very difficult time.” Building trust through open communication “Have you ever been in a hospital and felt like just another number?” Moore asked. “I want every patient to feel seen, heard, and cared for, not like they’re simply the next person in line.” For Moore, this means open communication. “Before administering a new medication, I explain what it is, why it has been prescribed, and what patients can expect after taking it,” she said. “I also walk them through their options and answer questions so they can feel comfortable with their treatment plan.” She also keeps patients informed about their discharge plans, whether they are ready to go home or need additional care, such as physical therapy. “I’m honest and transparent with my patients, just as I’d want someone to be with my loved one,” Moore said. Why nursing is her purpose Moore’s approach to nursing was shaped by her brother, who became paralyzed when he was 22 years old. “I recall my brother’s nurses saying things that made him feel more like a burden than a person,” said Moore. “Patients deserve kindness, respect, and to be treated as individuals, especially during difficult moments.” That philosophy guides her today and helped earn her a DAISY Award early in…

“Reyzell cares for some of our most critically ill patients — such as people suffering from heart attacks and organ failure,” said Patrick Shane, Mendoza’s former manager and a Kaiser Permanente nurse manager. An 11-year Kaiser Permanente employee, Reyzell Mendoza, BSN, RN, is a staff nurse II in the cardiovascular intensive care unit (CVICU) at the Santa Clara Medical Center. “She maintains a calm, steady presence that reassures both patients and families,” said Shane. That reassurance is needed in the CVICU, where monitors, alarms, and life-support equipment surround families. Mendoza regularly pulls up a chair, explains what is happening, and answers questions. “I avoid medical jargon and explain things in simple, everyday language that families can easily understand,” said Mendoza. The compassion, clinical expertise, and professionalism Mendoza shows her patients earned her a nomination from Shane and a DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an international honor recognizing nurses who provide exceptional patient care. Proactive care at every step “Even in highly stressful situations, Reyzell anticipates her patient’s needs and ensures they’re treated with respect and dignity,” said Shane. “It’s important for nurses to stay one step ahead rather than react to issues as they arise,” said Mendoza. “Doing so helps patients recover safely and gives families confidence throughout the process.” Before her first patient arrives, Mendoza has already reviewed their chart, studied test results, and planned the next phase of their care. She helps families understand recovery milestones and what to expect in the days ahead. Never far from the bedside Due to the severity of the conditions treated in the CVICU, nurses typically care for only one or two patients at a time. “Some of my patients aren’t used to being in the hospital, so I let them know when I need to step away to care for another patient,” said Mendoza. “I check on them often and even seeing me walk by their room can be reassuring.” “Whether it’s opening a curtain or simply stopping by to say hello, small check-ins help patients feel cared for and not alone,” she added. Providing comfort when it matters most “Reyzell advocates for comfort measures that make a meaningful difference,” explained Shane. Earlier this year, she cared for a patient who was nearing the end of his life. After his wife told her he loved spiritual music, she filled his room with songs that comforted him. She also helped his wife arrange transportation to a mortuary, which was two hours away. “It was one less thing for her to worry about during an incredibly difficult time,” shared Mendoza. Bringing your best self to every patient “My mentor once told me, ‘Choose work you would do even if you weren’t getting paid.’ I’ve always enjoyed spending time with older adults, which inspired me to become a caregiver while working toward a nursing career,” said Mendoza. “Receiving a DAISY Award is incredibly meaningful because it reinforces that I’m doing what I’m meant to do — caring for others,” she added. To recharge, Mendoza…

“One of Mark’s greatest strengths is his ability to listen intently, respond honestly, and follow through on his commitments,” described Gina Santos, BSN, RN IV, CMSRN, Gero-BC. “For example, when staff expressed concerns about workflows related to shift changes, he collaborated with the team to implement improvements, transforming these transitions into seamless experiences.” Mark Lee, BSN, RN, is a nurse manager at the Kaiser Permanente Redwood City Medical Center. Lee has been with Kaiser Permanente for 9 years and has been a nurse manager for the past 2 ½ years. Lee's leadership earned him a nomination from Santos, ultimately leading to him receiving the DAISY Nurse Leader award, an international honor recognizing nurses who deliver exceptional clinical skills and heartfelt care to patients and their families. A consistent presence "Mark shows up with empathy, consistency, and purpose. He became the steady presence for our team — he’s the glue that brought leadership and staff together," said Santos. His steady presence is reflected in how he leads day to day. Lee facilitates daily huddles and walks staff through workflows, creating a shared understanding for his team. “During one discussion about patients on high oxygen, I established a clear standard: those needing closer monitoring are connected to centralized systems, with vitals visible in real time," explained Lee, “Ensuring staff leave aligned and confident in what's expected.” Building trust, one conversation at a time "Through intentional team building, he fostered a culture of trust, collaboration, and mutual respect," said Santos. Lee brings this approach from his experience as a night nurse. “I arrive early to connect with the night shift, listening as staff shares the pace of the night, key challenges, and what still needs follow-up, ensuring they're heard, not just handed off to the next shift,” Lee said. “This helps create smoother transitions, stronger communication, and better continuity of care for patients.” Throughout the day, his office remains open to staff who want to talk through questions or concerns. “I greet team members by name and pause for brief, personal check-ins,” Lee shared. “These consistent, small interactions reinforce an environment where staff feel recognized, heard, and supported.” Why nursing Lee’s path to health care began in the Marine Corps, where he took a combat medic course and discovered a passion for patient care. After leaving the military, he pursued nursing and has remained committed to the field ever since. “Each day, I have the opportunity to make a positive difference in people’s lives,” Lee said. Supported staff, exceptional care "The DAISY Nurse Leader Award is one of my proudest professional accomplishments," said Lee. “I make it a priority to support my staff in ways they can see and feel — by staying accessible, checking in regularly, and following through on their concerns. "I believe my role as a manager is to set my team up for success. When staff feel supported and confident, they're able to deliver exceptional care to our patients."

Three hundred nurses from across Northern California gathered to share ideas, collaboration, and evidence-based practice.

“I knew that I might need ostomy surgery after the removal of a cancerous tumor," shared a new mom and Kaiser Permanente patient. Describing her feeling of being overwhelmed during her hospital stay, she emphasized how her nurse was the "only person who kept me from going totally crazy." That nurse was Rhonda Lombardo, RN, BA, BSN, MA, CWON, an ostomy wound care nurse at the Kaiser Permanente San Francisco Medical Center, who has been with Kaiser Permanente for a year and a half. “Her gentle smile, empathetic eyes, and her calm, reassuring tone helped me post-surgery,” described the patient. Lombardo’s compassionate and empathetic care earned her a nomination from the grateful patient, ultimately leading to her receiving the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses — an international honor recognizing nurses who deliver exceptional clinical skills and heartfelt care to patients and their families. Where kindness meets clinical care After the patient’s surgery, Lombardo entered the patient’s room and introduced herself. “She was understandably nervous and didn’t know what to expect,” Lombardo recalled. “I walked her through what an ileostomy meant — her intestinal system had been surgically rerouted — and an ostomy bag would now collect her bodily waste. “I talked the patient through each step of ostomy care, occasionally opening a book to point out diagrams as I explained what was now happening inside her body,” said Lombardo. “With the patient’s permission, I demonstrated how to change the ostomy bag and guided her as she began changing the bag herself.” Noticing the patient's concern about managing her ostomy bag at home, Lombardo paused, and they shared a quiet moment together before continuing on. More than an occupation “I was put on this earth to be a nurse. When I wake up each morning, I feel like I’m doing what I’m meant to do.” “Showing up for my patients means listening to their stories — without interrupting or rushing them along. It means allowing space for tears, sitting beside them, and sometimes simply holding a hand,” Lombardo explained. “In these moments, I try to remind them that they are more than a diagnosis — they are whole people, with lives, memories, and meaning far beyond the hospital room,” she added. “I try to understand what my patients need from me, because I’m there for them — not the other way around,” said Lombardi. “I take the time to have real conversations — asking how they feel, what they need, and who they are beyond all of this. This is their moment, and I want to make sure they leave feeling supported, confident, and able to move forward.” For the patient who nominated her, Lombardo transformed her care experience at Kaiser Permanente. “When you’re facing cancer, you have to search for light in the darkest moments,” she said. “Rhonda was that light for me. I’ll always remember her and be grateful for what she did.” “I’m truly humbled to receive a DAISY Award, especially knowing how many incredible nurses at the…

A group of nurse leaders went to Sacramento for A Day at the Capitol to meet lawmakers and learn how nurses can be effective advocates for their patients and profession.

A new inpatient program at our South Sacramento Medical Center will ensure that every veteran who passes away during their hospital stay receives the honor they deserve for serving our country. The Veteran Honor Flag & Final Salute Program, which launched on Memorial Day, offers a structured yet deeply human way for physicians, staff, and family members to recognize those who have worn the uniform. “This initiative is personally meaningful to me after witnessing a heartfelt honor walk and flag tribute for my father-in-law, who served in the Navy and passed away in a hospital in North Carolina,” said Laura McKelvey, RN, a South Sacramento ICU nurse whose passion led to the program’s local launch. “The experience left a lasting impact on our family, and I believe introducing a similar practice here will provide profound comfort and dignity to the veterans and families we serve. My vision is a simple but meaningful, family centered practice that aligns with our mission of compassionate, patient focused care while honoring those who have served our country.” The process for the Veteran Honor Flag & Final Salute Program begins well before a patient’s final moments. At admission, veteran status is identified and respectfully signaled with a flag bracelet that follows the patient throughout their care journey. When end of life conversations arise, families are gently introduced to the program and invited to decide whether they wish to participate. For many, simply being asked affirms that their loved one’s service is recognized. After a veteran passes, families are given time for private goodbyes while staff quietly prepare for what comes next. An American flag is carefully placed over the veteran, and an overhead announcement invites colleagues to gather—voluntarily—for the Honor Walk. A respectful, honorable recognition As with our existing Honor Walk program for organ and tissue donor patients, physicians and staff line the corridor or stand quietly at doorways, forming a path of respect. A caregiver reads the veteran’s name, rank, and branch of service aloud. A moment of silence follows. Then comes the walk. Together, caregivers escort the veteran and their loved ones along a pre-determined route through the hospital. A formally folded American flag is then presented to the family, along with a Tribute and Remembrance Card signed by members of the care team. “As a veteran, this matters deeply to me,” said Muhammed Arif, RN, the ICU Nurse Manager whom Laura first approached about the idea. “As a nurse leader, I am proud we are building a tradition that honors service and offers a final salute that brings comfort to families.” South Sacramento Chief Nurse Executive Katie Hoganson, RN, shares that pride. “I am incredibly proud of Laura’s passion, leadership, and dedication in bringing this program to life,” she said. “It is a beautiful example of how our staff continue to elevate the human experience for our patients and families.” McKelvey has shared program materials and protocols with other KP hospitals interested in launching a similar tribute program. View the program’s four step…

This Nurses Week, as we reflect on the theme This is the Power of Nursing Excellence, Kaiser Permanente Northern California honors 33 colleagues as 2026 Extraordinary Nurse Award recipients. Their work reflects the heart, skill, and humanity at the center of care. The 2026 Extraordinary Nurse Awards recognizes individuals from across the continuum of care — from bedside nursing and advanced practice to education, leadership, and collaboration with interprofessional colleagues. “We are proud to celebrate the 2026 Extraordinary Nurse Award honorees,” said Meghan Kielty‑Swinford, PhD, MSN, RN, CENP, interim Northern California chief nurse executive and vice president of clinical integration. “These individuals, alongside nearly 30,000 nurses across the region, demonstrate how skill, humanity, and compassion come together to show us, and our patients, the true power of nursing excellence.” Watch this video to hear from honorees about what extraordinary nursing means to them and how they demonstrate the power of nursing excellence. Congratulations to the 2026 Extraordinary Nurse Award recipients: