North Country Healthcare (NCH) is pleased to announce recent winners of the DAISY Nurse Recognition program from among its three hospitals: Androscoggin Valley Hospital (AVH), Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital (UCVH) and Weeks Medical Center (WMC). DAISY, a national program, the origin of which dates back more than 25 years, began when J. Patrick Barnes, passed away at the young age of 33, from disease complications. DAISY, the letters of which stand for Diseases Attacking the Immune System, was formed by his family to thank and recognize extraordinary nurses who are committed to compassionate care in their work, and who truly go “above and beyond.”
NCH is grateful for the dozens of nominations received from the public in 2025.
This year’s winners included:
Androscoggin Valley Hospital: Darrien Drapeau, RN. Darrian, a nurse on the Med/Surg unit of AVH, was recognized for the care she provided a patient who had just had surgery for a broken hip. The nomination read, in part, “The patience, love and compassion were breathtaking. She has become my hero.” Congratulations and thank you, Darrien!
Upper Connecticut Valley Hospital: Benjamin Boucher, RN. Benjamin, a nurse on the Med/Surg unit of UCVH, was recognized for the care he provided a patient who had an extended stay at the Hospital. The nomination read, in part, “He made sure I had the perfect care. He was direct with me when needed and he also advocated for me.” Congratulations and thank you, Benjamin!
Weeks Medical Center: Nancy Davidowicz, RN. Nancy, a nurse in the Oncology unit of WMC has formed a long-lasting relationship with a patient, providing care for the past 11 years. The nomination read, in part, “Her skill and knowledge in her field is exceptional and she brings so much more to her patients. Going to the oncology appointments for the past 11 years has changed from a source of anger, fear and hopelessness to a feeling of going HOME.”
An award winner from North Country Home Health & Hospice Agency will be announced in the near future.
Nominations for next year’s awards are open and can be made at northcountryhealth.org/daisy-award/
For more information about DAISY, please visit daisyfoundation.org.