Inspirational nurses recognised for outstanding patient care at Spire Alexandra Hospital

Two breast nurses from Spire Alexandra Hospital, Dot Patching and Irene Lyon, have become some of the first ever winners of the prestigious DAISY awards at Spire Healthcare.

The DAISY awards recognise extraordinary registered nurses and nursing associates who go above and beyond. First introduced in the US, they have been adopted by thousands of healthcare organisations around the world. Any patient or staff member can nominate a nurse for an award.

Both Dot and Irene were nominated for the dedication and support they continuously provide patients and their families attending our breast clinics. The nature of their role means they see patients in their most apprehensive and vulnerable states, and they always go above and beyond to minimise stress.

Whether staying late or ensuring they are available for patients out of hours, giving valuable mental health and clinical support, the job is no mean feat. Their dedication, passion and ability to support every new cancer diagnosis from clinic to surgery and discharge with the kindness and attention that is needed has impacted many grateful patients’ lives.

Over 40 people from across the country were nominated for an award, and a cross-departmental panel selected the three winners. The scheme will run four times a year, with the next group of winners being chosen in the summer.

Lee Aldridge, Hospital Director for Spire Alexandra Hospital, said: “I’m thrilled that both Dot and Irene have been named as one of Spire’s first ever DAISY award winners. Both colleagues exemplify the outstanding, compassionate care we strive to provide for our patients, and they work tirelessly to make our patients’ experience of being in our hospital as comfortable as possible. They are an absolute credit to Spire.”

Irene Lyon, breast care nurse from Spire Alexandra Hospital in Kent, one of the DAISY award winners, said: “I feel incredibly lucky and overwhelmed to be one of the first recipients of the DAISY award. I always put our patients first, as we naturally do, and strive to provide a comfortable and dignified environment, and for that to be seen and recognised by my colleagues is wonderful.”