Honoring Jazzmin Johnson: A DAISY Award Recipient Who Became Family

Perham Living celebrates extraordinary nurses who go beyond the expected and who care not just with their hands but with their hearts. Jazzmin Johnson is one of those nurses—and now, a DAISY Award recipient for the deep compassion and meaningful connections she brings to her work every day.

Her story, as told through a heartfelt nomination by the family of a resident, is a powerful reminder of how nursing is so much more than a job. It’s about humanity, dignity, and love.

“She was more than a nurse to Dad,” the nomination begins. “She would talk to him, work puzzles with him, spend time conversing with him. She knew Dad and his love of music, and that was one of the conversations they would have.”

Though Jazzmin was working part-time after welcoming a new baby, her presence in the resident’s life was unmistakably strong. A wall in his room even held photos of her wedding—not a typical decoration, but a reflection of the unique bond they had built. Jazzmin wasn’t just his caregiver; she was a source of companionship, laughter, and emotional connection.

As the resident transitioned into hospice care, his family made sure someone was by his side at all times. Though he was mostly unresponsive, something changed when Jazzmin entered the room.

“When Jazzmin came in and spoke to him, it was as if he knew it was her. He dearly loved his Nurse Jazzmin.”

Perhaps most touching was her decision to visit on her day off. With no obligation to be there, she spent over half an hour simply being present, chatting with the resident and his family, offering comfort and kindness.

“I just love the time she spent with Dad,” the family shared. “Treating him like a grandpa figure and making him feel like he was special.”

These are the moments that define DAISY Award nurses. Jazzmin Johnson demonstrated that true nursing is about connection, about treating patients like people—not just with expert care, but with the warmth and sincerity of a friend, even a family member.

We are honored to recognize Jazzmin for the extraordinary impact she had on the resident and his family and for the way she continues to show up—with heart, grace, and genuine love for those she serves.

About the DAISY Award:

The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is an international recognition program that honors the super-human work nurses do for patients and families every day. Established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, who died from complications of an autoimmune disease, the award was created by his family to say thank you to nurses everywhere. Patients, families, and colleagues nominate nurses, and honorees are selected for their clinical expertise, compassionate care, and deep commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others.