Three Letterkenny University Hospital nurses receive International DAISY Awards

Three nurses from Letterkenny University Hospital (LUH) were presented with the international DAISY Award at a ceremony in the hospital on Friday.

The awardees – Katherine Kilpatrick (staff nurse, Medical 3), Shelagh McDevitt (staff nurse, Paediatric Day Ward) and Claire McConnell (staff nurse, Gynaecology) – were selected from more than sixty nominees who were put forward by patients, families and colleagues for clinical excellence and compassionate care.

All nominees received a DAISY certificate and pin, while the three honourees were given a hand‑carved “Healer’s Touch” sculpture, an additional pin, a certificate and cinnamon buns to share with colleagues, a tradition linked to the award’s founder, Patrick Barnes.

Una Cardin, Director of Nursing at LUH, said the awards highlight the exceptional care delivered throughout the hospital. Marion Doogan, Director of Midwifery, added that the ceremony celebrates the daily contribution of nurses and midwives.

This marks the third DAISY award ceremony hosted by LUH in 2026, continuing the hospital’s partnership with the DAISY Foundation, which recognises nurses and midwives worldwide for going above and beyond for patients.

Source: Donegal Daily. Photo: Nacho Gomez / Pexels.