TJC Accredited
3 consecutive terms
Guam Regional Medical City Celebrates Summer Medler, 2025 DAISY Award Honoree
(Wednesday, May 21, 2025; Dededo, Guam) – Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) proudly announces that Summer Medler, Director of the GRMC Cancer Center, has been selected as the 2025 DAISY Award honoree. Out of 57 outstanding nominees, Summer was chosen for this year’s highest nursing recognition at GRMC, an achievement that speaks volumes about her compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to patient care.
Summer was formally honored during a special recognition ceremony held on Friday, May 16 at the Dusit Thani Guam Resort. Surrounded by colleagues, family, and friends, a commemorative banner was unveiled in her honor, celebrating her years of service and impact.
The DAISY Award stands for “Diseases Attacking the Immune System” and was established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, an international recognition program honoring nurses who provide extraordinary care to patients and families. GRMC is proud to be part of this tradition, celebrating those who embody the highest standards of nursing excellence.
Summer has been with GRMC since the hospital opened. Starting as a clinic nurse, becoming a nurse manager, and now leading as the Director of the Cancer Center. Her journey through the organization is marked by a consistent commitment to patient advocacy, staff development, and compassionate leadership.
One colleague shared, “Summer has always been a strong patient advocate–attentive, compassionate, and genuinely connected to everyone who walks through the doors of Radiation Oncology. She loves to hear about their day and will share some of her stories. From her time as a manager to now as Director of the Cancer Center, Summer continues to lead with purpose and heart. She consistently seeks ways to improve the department, raise standards, and exceed expectations. Our team truly feels supported and appreciated being under her leadership. Her genuine care and presence make every workday more confident and reassuring.”
Staff say Summer leads by example, always present, always listening, and always striving for excellence. “I’ve always seen her as compassionate, attentive, and empathetic. She actively listens to patients’ concerns and provides both physical and emotional support,” one team member shared. “She is determined when it comes to patient care. She won’t stop until she gets everything needed for the patient and that’s who Summer Medler is.”
“Summer exemplifies what it means to be a nurse leader,” said Jennifer Cruz, GRMC’s Chief Nursing and Ancillary Officer. “Her compassion, integrity, and commitment to patient care not only inspire her team but uplift every life she touches. This recognition is a true reflection of the heart she brings to her work every single day.”
Reflecting on the honor, Summer shared, “I am incredibly humbled and honored to receive the DAISY Award. Nursing has always been more than a job to me. I share this recognition with my entire Cancer Center team, because everything we do, we do together. Our patients are our family, and it’s a privilege to be part of their journey.”
Summer Medler’s recognition as the 2025 DAISY Award honoree is a reflection of her extraordinary impact, as a nurse, leader, mentor, and advocate for patients and staff alike.
For more information about GRMC and career opportunities, visit https://www.grmc.gu/careers/