BENTON, Ark. (October 3, 2025) – After 35 years of dedicated service, a registered nurse at Saline Memorial Hospital was recognized on Wednesday, Oct. 1, with the DAISY Award, one of nursing’s most prestigious honors. 

 Tracy Goodwin has dedicated her entire nursing career to supporting parents during the birthing process as part of the hospital’s labor and delivery department. Payton Mills, the department’s director, said Goodwin’s calming presence has brought reassurance to countless parents and helped create positive birth experiences.

 “What sets Tracy apart is her deep compassion,” Mills said. “She has an incredible ability to make each patient feel seen, heard and cared for, especially in moments of vulnerability, anxiety and pain. She approaches every birth with gentleness and grace.”

 In addition to providing exceptionally compassionate care, Goodwin has also been known as a mentor and resource for other team members, according to Mills.

“Her clinical skills are impeccable, and she is generous with her knowledge,” Mills said. “She takes the time to teach others — not only procedures, but also how to lead with empathy and professionalism."

 The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program that honors and celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide every day. The family of J. Patrick Barnes established the DAISY Foundation after he died from complications of the auto-immune disease ITP in 1999. During his hospitalization, they deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to the entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way.

 “Throughout her long and distinguished career, Tracy has been a consistent example of what it means to be a nurse,” said Jackie Wilkerson, Saline Memorial Hospital’s chief nursing officer. “Her dedication has touched countless lives, and her legacy continues to shape the culture of care in the labor and delivery department.”