Tristan Epps, a registered labor and delivery nurse in the Family Birth Center at St. Mary’s Hospital, has received St. Mary’s most recent systemwide DAISY Award for Nursing Excellence.

Epps, a resident of Rayle who joined St. Mary’s Family Birth Center in May 2023, was nominated by a mother whose baby was in a hurry to arrive. 

“My son’s birth was precipitous, and Tristan acted quickly and was extremely calm under pressure,” the mom wrote. “She was the one to deliver my son, quickly unwrap the cord from his neck, and then clean me up. She helped me facilitate breastfeeding, encouraged me when my son was not willing to eat, and was quick to assist me overnight while I was alone with my brand new baby.

“She reacted with poise, quick thinking, and skill,” the nomination concludes. “I never once felt alone or adrift. Tristan, thank you for being so wonderful to me and [my son] while we were in your care. I will never forget you!”

“Tristan is a wonderful nurse and has been a great addition to the Family Birth Center,” said Jackie Iley, St. Mary’s Director of Women’s and Children’s Services. “She truly brings excellent skills, compassion and a healing touch to her patients and their families.”