Recognized potential bloomed into an excellent DAISY nurse

“Sometimes it takes just one person to see a person’s potential, to light a fire that drives them to do so much more,” says Ashley Zimmerman, RN. “I was lucky enough to have so many of those kinds of women in my life.”

Zimmerman had been working in retail and needed help pumping breastmilk for her newborn. The organization that assisted her recognized her potential and referred her to become a breastfeeding peer counselor at her local Women, Infants and Children (WIC) office.

That team reached out 11 months later about a job opening, starting Zimmerman’s career in healthcare.

“I was given training, creative freedoms and mentorship from nurses and dietitians that inspired me,” says Zimmerman. “I hadn’t even graduated high school before I got that job. I got my GED and was the first in my family to graduate college during the five years I worked for WIC.”

Now, the two-time DAISY Award winner works at IU Health Paoli Hospital as a registered nurse in the adult obstetric unit (OB), helping other mothers and their families.

One patient nominated Zimmerman for her most recent DAISY Award because she stood out as a steady source of support. They noted she was very patient and understanding, especially with their concerns. They also appreciated her consistent check-in and regular help with diaper changes, breastfeeding and swaddling.

“She is a very outstanding RN…made us feel understood,” says the nomination form. “Very helpful.”

Ultimately, Zimmerman is there to support patients in whatever way she can for whatever situation may occur through education and advocating for them.

“On a good OB day, I get to help families realize they are stronger than they ever thought possible and have the best birthday parties,” she says. “On a bad OB day, I get to sit with families feeling the furthest from strong and try to help them stay afloat.”