Candy Foster, RN, was named the 2026 DAISY Award winner at OSF HealthCare Saint Clare Medical Center

Candy Foster, RN, is being celebrated as the 2026 DAISY Award winner at OSF HealthCare Saint Clare Medical Center for her extraordinary compassion and dedication to patient care. Nominated by the family of an elderly patient, Candy stood out by providing thoughtful support—from adjusting lighting to arranging church hymns and finding a pink robe for comfort during therapy. Her heartfelt attention was described as “overflowing and overwhelming kindness.”

“Candy’s kindness and love were overflowing and overwhelming,” the nominator shared. “Her patience for her patients was bursting with love. This is what compassion and living the OSF Mission means. Every patient deserves a nurse like her.”

She was recognized for her thoughtful actions—adjusting room lighting, ensuring access to spiritual music, and providing a pink robe for warmth during therapy. The DAISY Award, established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes, is now presented in over 2,000 healthcare facilities across 50 states and 14 countries. Recipients receive an award pin, certificate, and “Healing Touch” statue.

“We are privileged to be affiliated with the DAISY Foundation. Patients and families can recognize our nurses that go above and beyond to make them feel safe and cared for,” said Maria Chicchelly, chief nursing officer at OSF Saint Clare.

The DAISY Award honors nurses who make a meaningful impact, recognizing their commitment to dignity and healing. Community members can nominate exceptional caregivers at osfgratefulpatient.org.