Daisy Winner Andy Sakalis Was Longtime "Hero" For Patient's Family

Andy Sakalis, RN, is a Senior Services nurse at Eastview and our second Daisy Award winner of 2026.

He was nominated by the family of a patient who received care from Andy for four years. They wrote the following: 

For four years, Andy was the saving grace for our mother. Mom went from being an independent, fashionable, and active woman to living in skilled nursing after a stroke, a transition that was devastating for her. Andy truly recognized that trapped inside an incapable body was a whole-hearted person with deep feelings. He didn’t just provide medical care – he provided dignity while he was there. He took the time to explain the changes in her mind and body so she wouldn’t sit in fear. When she began suffering from seizures, Andy would sit by her side until we arrived, personally assuring her she was safe.

The patient's family attended Andy's Daisy Award ceremony. 

Their letter goes on to say:

Over the course of four years, he provided more than just medical management for her; he provided a sanctuary of respect. Andy’s impact was defined by:

• Patient Advocacy: He took the time to explain complex physiological changes to her, alleviating her anxiety.
• Consistency: This wasn’t a one-time act of kindness, but a four-year standard of excellence during his shifts.
• Family Partnership: He maintained constant communication with us, providing the peace of mind that allowed our family to breathe when we couldn’t be by her side.
• Compassion in Crisis: During frightening new-onset seizures and other conditions, Andy’s presence was a constant. For our family, “Andy is on shift” became an affirmation that Mom would be OK. He cared for her as if she were his own mother, bridging the gap between clinical necessity and genuine love. He was our hero, our eyes, and our ears for four years.

Andy's family attended the surprise ceremony, and he was certainly surprised to see them attending what he was told would be an award ceremony for his manager, Senior Services Chief Director of Nursing Sheila Brady. After sharing a puzzled look with his wife, he began climbing the stairs of the Cameron Auditorium before learning he was actually the award recipient. 

Sheila praised Andy's willingness to step in and help whenever and wherever he is needed without hesitation.

"Andy provides not only bedside medical care, he also provides dignity and respect to all his residents and patients," she wrote. "He engages with his residents and takes the time to explain what is going on not only to the residents but also to their families."

Andy has worked at Benefis for 16 years. He has held roles in the Emergency Department, Information Technology Services, and Senior Services. 

To nominate a nurse for the Daisy Award, click here.