Forrest Health Names DAISY Award Winner for November
HATTIESBURG, Miss. – (December 4, 2024) Forrest Health has named Ravi Kenade, RN, Radiology, as its November DAISY Award winner. The DAISY award, which is presented monthly to a deserving nurse or nurses, exemplifies clinical expertise and compassionate care and is recognized as a role model in the nursing community.
Ravi’s nominator described him as an exceptional nurse. “He has worked in the ED and now in radiology and has always been extremely proactive and helpful,” said the nominator. “He is always kind and compassionate with an uncommon ability to remain calm and even-tempered.
“Ravi has an unwavering dedication to patient care. He embodies the qualities of a gentle giant – kindhearted, dependable, and consistently present whenever help is needed. Regardless, he always responds to patients' needs with patience, compassion, and a calm presence that puts everyone at ease. Ravi has become someone patients and staff trust deeply, knowing his support is only a call away.
“One recent example was when an ER patient arrived after the 4 pm Paracentesis cut-off. Ravi stayed late so the patient could be taken care of and could be discharged. Registration staff recognizes how quickly Ravi always responds to Outpatient Registration when a call goes out for nursing assistance. Ravi uniquely connects with patients, making each feel seen, heard, and respected. His quiet strength and empathy inspire us all to contribute to a more compassionate environment for both patients and staff. Ravi's selflessness and dedication to patient care make him incredibly deserving of a DAISY.
Kenade, who received his degree from Pearl River Community College, has been employed at Forrest General for 18 years. The Hattiesburg resident said he chose the healthcare field because in 2012 he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma. “I was diagnosed at the same time my father passed away,” said Ravi. “My mother suggested I come to California to be with her and get treatment. There, I was being taken care of by a nurse who was helping me with my PICC line, as well as the other nurses taking care of me. I thought that was something I might like to do, get through my treatments and then give back.” These days at Forrest General, Ravi is paying back the care he received.
“We are so proud of Ravi,” said Kim Reddish, RN, MSN, CENP, CCRN (alum), Forrest Health Chief Nursing Officer/vice president. “He is a wonderful representation of how the DAISY award was envisioned by the founders of the organization. Forrest General is proud to have such an extraordinary nurse integrated into the team.”
To nominate a nurse for a DAISY Award, visit forresthealth.org/daisyaward.
ABOUT FORREST HEALTH
Forrest Health is a system of healthcare organizations formed to increase access to quality health care in south Mississippi. Forrest General Hospital is its flagship hospital. In addition to Forrest General, Forrest Health hospitals include: Highland Community Hospital, Picayune; Jefferson Davis Community Hospital & Extended Care Facility, Prentiss; Marion General Hospital, Columbia; Pearl River County Hospital & Nursing Home, Poplarville; Perry County General Hospital, Richton; and Walthall General Hospital, Tylertown. Forrest Health is also home to The Orthopedic Institute and Institute of Neuroscience, both in Hattiesburg, as well as a variety of healthcare clinics throughout its 19-county coverage area.
