Tift Regional Medical Center recently honored two team members for their exceptional care and compassion. Patient Care Technician Gloria Peoples-Bacon received the BEE Award, and Kari Hathcock, RN, received the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses.
The BEE Award, which stands for Being Exceptional Every Day, recognizes caregivers in non-licensed nursing roles who go above and beyond to provide exceptional care to patients.
Peoples-Bacon was nominated by a patient’s family member, who shared that her care continued even after the patient was no longer assigned to her.
“Gloria still made a point to stop by and check on my sister,” the family member wrote. “On one of her visits, she noticed my sister’s bed was messy while my sister sat in the chair. Without being asked, she took the time to make the bed. Her presence meant a lot to my sister, and I could tell by how she would light up whenever Gloria entered the room. That continued kindness, attentiveness and genuine care made such an impact. We are grateful for her.”
Hathcock, who serves as a nurse in TRMC Obstetrics, was recognized with the DAISY Award for the compassionate support she provided to a patient and her partner during the loss of their unborn baby.
The patient described arriving at the hospital feeling heartbroken, frightened and uncertain about what she and her partner would experience.
“Kari visited me frequently and checked on my physical and mental pain,” the patient wrote. “She made my partner and me feel as comfortable and normal as possible. Kari made us laugh and was available to answer questions and explain things.”
The patient said Hathcock stayed beyond the end of her shift to provide support during the delivery.
“Kari held my hand and encouraged me,” the patient wrote. “The fact that she was willing to so selflessly spare the time meant so much to me, and I don’t think there are enough words to truly express how thankful I am for that act of service.”
“TRMC is truly lucky to have Kari as an employee and as a leader who sets an example of compassion and selflessness,” the patient continued. “I was lucky she was there on such a heartbreaking day for me.”
The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses is part of the DAISY Foundation’s international program recognizing the exceptional, compassionate care nurses provide every day. Nurses may be nominated by patients, families and colleagues and are selected by a committee.
“Gloria and Kari demonstrate how meaningful acts of kindness and compassion can make a lasting difference for patients and their families,” said Tonia Garrett, chief nursing officer for Southwell. “They reflect the values we uphold at Southwell, and we are grateful for their dedication to those we serve.”
For more information about the DAISY Award, visit DAISYfoundation.org. For more information about Tift Regional Medical Center and Southwell, or to nominate a team member for a DAISY or BEE award, visit mysouthwell.com.