Employee Recognition

We’re pleased to announce this quarter’s DAISY regional award winners. Patients, colleagues and families have called out the following 13 nurses for the extraordinary care and support they provide in their patients’ recoveries. Here’s what makes them special:

Critical Illness Recovery Hospitals DAISY Winners

Regency Hospital – Cleveland East: Matthew Krejci

Matthew Krejci was nominated by a patient’s family for going “above and beyond to educate us about so many different things.” Matthew was described as friendly and helpful. When he discovered that his patient was quitting smoking, Matthew brought mints and told the patient they helped him with cravings. He also brought bananas for the patient when his potassium was low and listed other foods that were rich in potassium.

Select Specialty Hospital – Erie: Julie Fairfield

A colleague nominated Julie Fairfield for her dedication to ensuring the safe evacuation of patients after a severe windstorm caused a generator failure. As the charge nurse responsible for patient safety, Julie coordinated with her team and emergency services to successfully transfer all patients to local facilities in under two hours.

Select Specialty Hospital – Flint: Douglas Tobias

Douglas Tobias was nominated by a patient’s wife for putting her mind at ease and being a phenomenal communicator. “Doug went out of his way to make it clear to me I could call him for anything 24 hours a day,” said the patient’s wife. After a phone call between Doug and the wife was disconnected, Doug took the time to find a working phone line and called back with an update on her husband’s condition. “Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” the wife said.

Select Specialty Hospital – Kansas City: Renee Rust

A colleague nominated Renee Rust for being “a rock of strength, yet empathetic and caring in providing support and comfort” for her patients. Renee’s colleague noted her excellent communication skills, ability to anticipate needs and adherence to safety standards. While caring for a patient at the end of their life, Renee demonstrated her compassionate nature by staying at the patient’s bedside alongside the family.

Select Specialty Hospital – Laurel Highlands: Molly Hileman

Molly Hileman was nominated by a patient’s daughter for being a “stand out health care professional who made the worst days of my life a little easier.” The daughter pointed to Molly’s willingness to explain complicated medical procedures; Molly also helped find a priest to attend to her patient’s spiritual needs. “I am so grateful that Molly was with us when my dad exited this life.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Milwaukee St. Francis: Evelyn Berg

A patient’s husband nominated Evelyn Berg for being an exemplary nurse with “a smile that lights up the whole wing.” Evelyn was called out for being kind and maintaining a professional demeanor when working with patients. “She was cleaning my wife after she had a bowel movement when my wife had another bowel movement… she said that the timing was good and all these other things to make my wife not feel embarrassed or humiliated about it.” 

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Angela Bowling

Angela Bowling’s nominator said, “she is a bright light in the middle of an uncertain situation for the patient and their family.” Angela was recognized for her ability to see things from the patient’s perspective and make them feel like a real person “and not just another bed filled.” Her nominator, a patient’s sister, wrote that Angela went out of her way to go to the store “to get some things I needed, more than once.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Tucson Northwest: Allison Newhard

A colleague nominated Allison Newhard for her compassionate treatment of family members, great listening skills and willingness to be a true team player. Allison’s colleague noted that she is a knowledgeable and skilled critical thinker, providing support, updates and answers to multiple families while working to reduce the number of critical drips and maintain a critically ill patient’s blood pressure. “I never know what kind of day Allison is having — she’s always upbeat, smiling and encouraging to staff.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Downriver: Ella Kingsler

Ella Kingsler was “heaven sent” according to the patient who nominated her. “Ella gave me bedside care and saw that my hair was horribly matted and dirty. She brought in a detangler and tried for two days to clean my hair.” When the patient’s daughter arranged for a hairdresser to visit, Ella helped set everything up. Her patient also noted that Ella took the time to always write down her needs. “She made me feel heard.”

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals DAISY Winners

Banner Rehabilitation Hospital East: Stephenie Hokanson

Stephenie Hokanson, a wound care nurse, was nominated by a patient who suffered a burn injury on Christmas Eve. The patient, a physician, was in a burn center for three weeks before arriving at Banner Rehabilitation Hospital East. “Stephenie was very caring, compassionate and extremely meticulous,” the patient wrote. “She was so attentive and had a great bedside manner. She was constantly assessing and adjusting the plan based on new findings.” Overall, he wrote, Stephenie “is just a dynamic, outstanding provider and teacher.”

Cleveland Clinic Rehabilitation Hospital, Beachwood: David Monroe

David Monroe received high praise from a patient whose first language is Spanish and lives outside of the United States. The patient wrote in his nomination, “David definitely stood out.” His compassion and prompt response to patient’s needs did not go unnoticed. “Being from another country made communication difficult, which could be frightening at times,” the patient said. “David and I connected when I realized he could communicate with me and had traveled to my country many times. Being so far from home, it was nice to feel the comfort of knowing that David saw me as more than just a patient. He was a joy and really helped me. I truly appreciated that.”

OhioHealth Rehabilitation Hospital – Columbus: Samantha Norris

Nominated by a colleague, Samantha Norris was praised for “consistently providing excellent care while displaying a positive attitude that improves overall morale.” Her colleague credited her for going above and beyond in collaborating with the hospital’s therapy staff. As an example of her teamwork, “Sammy collected supplies for a patient’s shower, covered their wounds and started the water to make sure it was warm, which improved patient satisfaction,” her nominator wrote. “She positively impacts our department on every shift. Patients and staff just love her!”

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Lake Saint Louis: Donnita Alligood

Donnita Alligood was nominated by a patient who underwent an extensive back surgery. The patient wrote that Donnita was “very kind, caring and helpful from the moment I met her.” When the patient expressed concern about taking pain medication because of a fear of becoming addicted, “Donnita asked what my concerns were, then took the time to explain that the medication was safe and how pain management is an important part of my care plan.” After Donnita provided this education, the patient felt more at ease and was able to enjoy better rest with lessened pain. “She was so helpful and comforting,” the patient wrote.

We’re pleased to announce the DAISY regional award winners for the second quarter of 2024. These nurses have earned praise for their extraordinary care from patients, families and colleagues. Here’s what makes them special:

Critical Illness Recovery Hospitals DAISY Winners

Select Specialty Hospital – Downriver: Kimberly Antolak

Kim was nominated by a patient’s daughter for the way she connected with and motivated her mother, who was fearful about her mobility challenges. Kim didn’t just provide excellent care; she got to know her patient, talked with her, addressed her fears and stressed the importance of mobility exercises. “There were days when my mother felt discouraged, but Nurse Kim was there holding her hand, offering words of encouragement that lifted her spirits remarkably,” the daughter said.  

Select Specialty Hospital – Columbus Grant: Jennifer Bass

Compassionate. Empathetic. Encouraging. Funny. Loving. Selfless. That is how a patient’s wife described Jen, who cared for her husband for an extended period of time. “She picked him up when he was down. She has talked him off the ledge when he is having a panic attack. She’s prayed with him. She’s joked with him and she truly cares about him,” the wife wrote, noting that Jen has done the same for her and her family. Jen isn’t just her husband’s nurse, she said. She is now also a dear friend.

Select Specialty Hospital – Battle Creek: Abigail Bittner

A patient who is a Vietnam veteran and copes with post-traumatic stress disorder nominated Abby for her compassion, sharing a compelling story of the day he suffered a panic attack and Abby came to his rescue. “She took me out of the room for a wheelchair ride down the hall. We took time to look at the pictures, she got me a popsicle and stayed with me until I got through it … she helped me through a rough afternoon,” he said.

Select Specialty Hospital – Tri Cities: Jack Duncan 

Jack was nominated by a colleague who said she frequently observes his compassion toward, and connection with, the patients in his care. She was particularly touched when Jack celebrated the birthday of a patient whose stay was longer than anticipated and whose family lived out of state. “I am around Jack on the unit and he always conveys thoughtfulness and is caring in all situations,” his colleague said.

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Felicia Fuqua

Felicia’s nomination was submitted by a patient’s wife who said Felicia made them feel special the way she answered all of their questions, anticipated their needs and looked out for their safety. For example, Felicia knew the couple enjoyed ice and brought them cups of ice several times a day. “She was always cheerful and would ask my husband how his therapy and his day were. She praised him for the progress he made,” the wife wrote.

Select Specialty Hospital – Laurel Highlands: Renee Gratter

A patient’s daughter summarized Renee’s care this way: “It is always heartening and rare to encounter an individual who is so well-suited for their career choice.” Renee always had a smile and encouraging word, eagerly addressed all issues and worries and gave generously of her time to listen. Renee even inquired about the patient’s progress following discharge. “She is not only highly capable, but also a compassionate and nurturing person to her core.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Augusta UH: Mica Hunter

Mica’s nomination came from the mother of a patient who praised Mica’s care and compassion toward her son. Mica mixed ice with the patient’s apple juice so that it was as cold as he liked it. When the vending machines didn’t have strawberry or grape diet drinks, Mica got them for him. She made sure his pills were crushed tiny enough so that he would take his medication. “We saw that same care with other patients,” the mother said. “She is an example of an exemplary nurse.”

Select Specialty Hospital – North Knoxville: Barbara Lowe

Barbara was nominated by a patient’s wife for the outstanding care she provided not only to him, but their family. Barbara “has a sweet and humble attitude” and treats patients as if they were her own loved ones. She explains things in a way that everyone can understand and provides excellent care to her patients.  “Nurses like Barbara need to be recognized for their outstanding performance,” the nominator wrote.

Select Specialty Hospital – Nashville West: Dream Stott

Dream was nominated by a patient for her excellent, attentive care. Dream brought him coffee, answered his questions and continually checked on him. On the patient’s last day, Dream promised him four walks and, although her shift was over, Dream escorted him on his final walk. “I told her she was off and to go home to her family and she said, ‘I promised you four and we are doing four.’  Before she left the room she told me I was a good patient, she hugged me and told me to keep working on getting better.”

Select Specialty Hospital – Youngstown: Danielle Wess

Danielle was nominated by a colleague who called out her extraordinary compassion for her patients and her willingness to lend a hand whenever it is needed. Danielle takes time to get to know her patients and their needs. Her colleague cited examples of how Danielle’s commitment to patients – for example, her thoroughness in reviewing charts – resulted in better outcomes, saying that Danielle’s priority “is always ensuring the patient’s medical care and safety.” 

Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals DAISY Winners

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton: Brandy Cook

Brandy was called “a ray of sunshine” by the family of a patient with a form of cancer that caused spinal compression. “Brandy is an extremely compassionate, skilled nurse who is curious about her patients’ lives as individuals,” they wrote. “She demonstrated empathy while encouraging (the patient) to be optimistic and have faith in the process of rehabilitation.” Brandy empowered the patient to make decisions regarding her self-care, pain control and medication. She also provided extensive education so that the patient could return home as independently as possible.

Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Saddle Brook: Cristine Maranon

Seven colleagues at Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Saddle Brook nominated Cristine for her compassionate, patient-centered care; team approach; critical thinking and clear communication skills. “Cristine is an extraordinary, humble, loving, caring nurse,” said one nominator. “I have been a staff member at Kessler for 23 years and I have never met anyone like her.” Others remarked on her work ethic, focus on safety, leadership and positivity. All agree that if Cristine is working with them, they are that much more excited for their shift.

Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation – Marlton: Anthony “Tony” Tran

Nominated by a patient and two patients’ family members, Tony was recognized for his passion for nursing, selflessness, calm demeanor and fantastic attitude. He is also known for his ability to start an IV line in the toughest of cases. “Tony displayed an extraordinary level of compassion, empathy and professionalism,” said one nominator, who explained how Tony thoroughly explained what to expect during stroke recovery, alleviating anxiety. Another nominator described Tony as “having a wonderful personality and spirit – a perfect combination manifesting a phenomenal nurse.”

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton: Steven Richardson

Steven was nominated by a patient who was touched by a caring gesture. “I was in the hospital on St. Patrick’s Day, which for me means corned beef and cabbage,” the patient wrote. “Steven and I talked about it and I told him it was probably the first time in 50 years that I didn’t have my favorite holiday dish.” The next day, Steven brought the patient personally prepared corned beef, cabbage, potatoes and carrots. “You can imagine my surprise!” the patient said. “I almost cried at the kind gesture. That was indeed above and beyond the scope of his job."

SSM Health Rehabilitation Hospital – Bridgeton: Deborah Wagner

“A kind, loving nurse and a lovely person” is how the former patient who nominated Deborah described her. “What I loved most were our conversations,” the patient wrote. Deborah and the patient bonded over their shared interests, including pets and baking, with the patient saying, “We talked about our lives and our similarities. I believe she might be one of the most kind and compassionate women I’ve ever met.” The patient was equally impressed by Deborah’s skills as a nurse. “Her level of care was impeccable.”