Honoree Preston Lonis (left) is congratulated by Sammie Gonzalez, surgical services coordinator (right).
Memorial Hospital of Gardena recently honored PACU/Recovery staffer Preston Lonis, RN, with the DAISY Award. The prestigious award recognizes a nurse’s deep caring and compassion for the patients he serves.
Lonis joined the Gardena team as a traveler in December 2025.
He was nominated by the family of an 18-year-old patient who experienced some difficulties in recovery following what was expected to be a relatively minor procedure.
“Preston’s quick thinking, clinical judgment and compassionate care made all the difference,” wrote a family member. “Preston was attentive, hands-on and fully engaged in my brother’s care.”
The nomination went on to say that Preston demonstrated not only clinical skill, but also compassion.
“He consistently acknowledged our concerns, kept us informed, and reassured us that my brother was going to be okay,” the nomination read. “His calm demeanor during such a stressful moment brought comfort to my entire family.”
8.28.2026