Perham Living has announced that Annette Riestenberg, RN, has been honored with the prestigious DAISY Award. This recognition highlights Annette’s compassion, wisdom, and desire to uplift others, including both residents and colleagues. 

The DAISY Award recognizes nurses who demonstrate extraordinary care and make a difference in their communities, and Riestenberg is a shining example of what this honor represents. Her dedication to the residents and her commitment to her team members have left an indelible mark on her peers and the residents she serves.

As stated in Riestenberg’s award nomination letter written by Stacey Rehm, Perham Living resident care manager, “She is always doing little things for the residents to make their life easier, better, and more comfortable. Whether it be shopping for alternative clothing, purchasing snacks items, or bringing in fresh cut flowers for someone who loved to garden as they prepare to leave this earth, she often spends her time and money to make these simple, small gestures a light in their lives.”

In addition to her patient care, Annette demonstrates an unwavering commitment to fostering growth among other nurses. “Annette is willing to teach and explain things to nurses to provide them with growth within the facility and their career,” Rehm included.

Riestenberg’s recognition as a DAISY Award recipient is a testament to her impact as a nurse, role model, and advocate for excellence in healthcare. She inspires those around her to strive for the highest standards of care, making the nursing profession and the Perham Living community proud.

Congratulations, Riestenberg, and thank you for embodying the heart and soul of nursing!

The DAISY Award

In 1999, the compassionate journey of the DAISY Foundation began, born out of the profound loss experienced by the Barnes family. Patrick Barnes, a remarkable individual, succumbed to complications from the autoimmune disease ITP at the age of 33. In the wake of this heartbreaking event, the Barnes family sought a positive way to commemorate Patrick’s memory.

Over a heartfelt and reflective dinner shortly after Patrick’s passing, the family conceptualized DAISY, which stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System. The foundation’s inception was fueled by the family’s desire to contribute something meaningful and positive in honor of Patrick.

As the Barnes family deliberated on the purpose of The DAISY Foundation, they consistently circled back to a beacon of light amid Patrick’s challenging 8-week illness – the exceptional care provided by his nurses. While the clinical expertise of the nurses left a lasting impression, it was the profound compassion and kindness they consistently exhibited at Patrick’s bedside that truly touched the family’s hearts.

In gratitude for the extraordinary care bestowed upon Patrick and their family, the Barneses initiated The DAISY Award^® for Extraordinary Nurses. What began as a personal expression of gratitude has blossomed into a global recognition program embraced by numerous healthcare organizations worldwide. The DAISY Foundation has become a powerful symbol of appreciation for the unwavering dedication and exceptional care that nurses extend to patients and their families each day.

About Perham Living

Perham Living is a nationally recognized leader in older adult services offering post-acute care, home care, assisted living, adult day services, apartment living, memory care assisted living, and a nursing home community within its campus.