TJC Accredited
3 consecutive terms
(June 5, 2026; Dededo, Guam) – Guam Regional Medical City (GRMC) proudly announces that Jaena Josef, RN, of the GRMC Cancer Center, has been selected as the recipient of the 2026 DAISY Award. Selected from 58 outstanding nominees, Jaena earned GRMC’s highest nursing recognition, an honor that reflects her extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to patient-centered care.
Jaena was formally recognized during a special Nurses Month celebration held on May 15, 2026, at the Crowne Plaza Resort Guam, where colleagues, leaders, family members, and friends gathered to celebrate her outstanding contributions to nursing and the meaningful impact she has made on patients, families, and fellow team members.
The DAISY Award, which stands for Diseases Attacking the Immune System, is an international recognition program established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes to honor nurses who provide exceptional clinical care and compassion to patients and families. GRMC is proud to participate in this global program and recognize nurses who exemplify the very best of the profession.
Jaena was selected based on multiple heartfelt nominations submitted by coworkers and patients, each describing the profound impact she has made through her compassion, clinical excellence, leadership, and unwavering dedication to those she serves. One nominator shared that Jaena “created a beautiful relationship with a young cancer patient and stood by his side until his very last breath.” The nomination further described how she continued to support the patient’s family even after his passing, demonstrating a level of compassion and connection that extends far beyond traditional caregiving responsibilities.
Another colleague described Jaena as “the true meaning and definition of a nurse,” recognizing her unique ability to combine clinical expertise with genuine empathy. The nomination highlighted how she consistently makes patients feel valued and supported, even during their most challenging circumstances.
The admiration expressed by her colleagues is echoed by the patients whose lives she touches every day. Perhaps the most powerful testimony came from one of Jaena’s own patients, who simply shared, “She is always happy and smiling when she’s taking care of me. She cares for me.” The nomination stories and patient testimonials reflect the qualities that define exceptional nursing—clinical excellence, unwavering advocacy, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of others. Through her dedication and service, Jaena continues to make a lasting impact on patients, families, and fellow caregivers alike.
Beyond the compassionate care she provides at the bedside, Jaena is also recognized for her leadership and clinical expertise within the nursing profession. As a charge nurse in the Cancer Center, she has earned the respect of both patients and colleagues through her commitment to excellence and patient advocacy. Coworkers described her as a strong patient advocate who consistently prioritizes safety, evidence-based care, and positive patient outcomes. They also noted her willingness to mentor new staff, support colleagues during challenging situations, and foster a culture of teamwork and mutual respect.
“Jaena embodies the qualities we strive for in nursing excellence,” said Jennifer Cruz, Chief Nursing and Ancillary Officer at GRMC. “Her compassion, professionalism, and commitment to patient-centered care leave a lasting impact on everyone she encounters. She is an inspiration to her colleagues and a source of comfort and healing for her patients and their families.”
“Jaena is incredibly deserving of this recognition,” said Summer Medler, Director of the GRMC Cancer Center and 2025 DAISY Award Honoree. “She exemplifies everything the DAISY Award stands for through the compassion, dedication, and excellence she brings to every patient interaction. Whether caring for patients, supporting families, or helping her colleagues, Jaena consistently leads with kindness, professionalism, and grace. Seeing Jaena receive this honor is especially meaningful because she is part of our Cancer Center team. In oncology, we have the privilege of caring for patients during some of the most challenging moments of their lives, and our team pours their hearts into that work every day. Jaena embodies that commitment in the way she connects with patients and families and in the genuine care she provides. Her recognition is a reflection of the difference she makes in the lives of those she serves, and we are incredibly proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement.”
Reflecting on the honor, Jaena shared, “I am truly humbled to receive the DAISY Award. All glory, honor, and praise belong to God. Nursing has always been more than a profession to me—it is a calling to be the hands and feet of Christ while caring for people during some of the most important and challenging moments of their lives. I treat every patient as if they were my own family member, and I strive to provide the same compassion, respect, and support that I would want for my loved ones. This recognition means so much to me, and I share it with my fellow nurses and teammates who inspire me every day.”
In recognition of National Nurses Month, the organization proudly celebrates Jaena Josef for exemplifying the values of nursing and for making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients, families, and fellow team members every day.
GRMC congratulates Jaena Josef, its 2026 DAISY Award Honoree, and extends its gratitude to all GRMC nurses who continue to serve our island community with excellence, strength, compassion, and heart.
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For more information, please contact: Charly Lauron
Marketing & Communications Manager
Email: chalorna.lauron@grmc.gu