December 2025, Lora Rearick

Lora Rearick, a nurse in Specialty Surgical Care was nominated for the Daisy Award for fer kindness, patience, and clear communication eased the patient’s anxiety and made their experience more comfortable. The patients family emphasized that her compassion and dedication do not go unnoticed and make a meaningful difference every day.

October 2025, Michael Murphy

Michael Murphy consistently demonstrates compassion, teamwork, and dedication. When a patient required an urgent transfer to the ICU, Michael, though not assigned to the case, immediately stepped in to help. He coordinated care, prepared needed equipment, and ensured a smooth transition. His initiative and kindness exemplify the true spirit of nursing and the values we uphold at IRMC. We are fortunate to have him on our team.

August 2025, Kayla Domino

Kayla Domino, a nurse in labor and delivery, is being recognized with the DAISY Award for the month of August! Kayla received a call from the information desk that a patient's water had broken as she arrived at the hospital. Kayla rushed down to the lobby to immediately take her to the delivery room. She was only in the room for 10 minutes before the baby was born. While in labor Kayla kept comforting her during the high stress moment to ensure a safe delivery.

June 2025, Adam Carpinello

Adam Carpinello was nominated for the June 2025 Daisy Award for his incredible care and compassion when it was needed most. . A patient came in during a mental health crisis and was unsure if they wanted to stay. They became really upset during triage, and although Adam wasn’t their nurse, he stepped in right away. He was able to calm them down, earn their trust, and turn a very tense moment into something manageable. He didn’t stop there, he brought the patient something to eat, joked around to make them smile, and found common ground to chat about. It really helped them feel more at ease. Even after his shift ended, Adam stayed to start their IV to make sure they were hydrated and comfortable.

June 2025, Sara George

Sara was nominated for the DAISY Leader Award by a co-worker who recognized her strong leadership and dedication to quality care. She has led improvements in the stroke and chest pain programs, ensuring both initial accreditation and reaccreditation. Sara also works to educate the community on stroke and heart disease prevention. She actively supports bedside nurses through training, debriefings, and recognition programs. Whether responding to stroke alerts or assisting during emergencies, Sara leads with compassion, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence.

April 2025, Brandy Kitchen

Brandy was honored with the DAISY Award for the outstanding care and compassion she brings to her role. A newer addition to her department, Brandy draws on a strong background in emergency and critical care nursing. She is known among her peers for stepping in to support co-workers during challenging situations, always demonstrating calm, critical thinking and respect for everyone around her.

Brandy was nominated for the award after several instances that highlighted her empathy and dedication. A patient’s family praised her excellent bedside manner and the way she took time to communicate clearly and compassionately. Another family expressed appreciation for how thoroughly she explained a loved one’s condition and plan of care. A co-worker also observed her exceptional patience while caring for a confused elderly patient.

Brandy consistently exemplifies what it means to be a nurse and lives out IRMC’s core values of integrity, compassion, accountability, respect, and excellence.

March 2025, Grace Girolami

Grace Girolami, RN, was nominated for the March 2025 DAISY Award for thoughtfulness. Her patient stated "I met Grace when she was the lead nurse during the delivery of my second child. She was incredibly attentive, experienced, and caring—keeping me on schedule, ensuring my comfort, and guiding another nurse in training all at once. When my son had breathing issues after birth, Grace kept us informed, helped us be with him in the nursery, and offered calm, genuine support during a very scary time. Her positive attitude put me at ease. I was so grateful to have her again the next night—she asked about my son, who had been transferred to another hospital, and continued to care for me throughout the night."

December 2024, Kelly Garvin

Kelly Garvin, RN, was nominated for the December 2024 DAISY Award for her exceptional care and quick thinking. After recovering from open-heart surgery, a patient was referred to IRMC's Cardiac Rehab program, where they met registered nurse Kelly. During their first appointment, the patient was experiencing symptoms like chest congestion and difficulty breathing, unaware that something more serious was wrong. Kelly noticed their discomfort and, after asking how they were feeling, took the initiative to call their doctor. Her prompt action led to the patient being sent to the Emergency Department, and then was diagnosed and admitted for treatment. Kelly didn’t stop there—she visited the patient in the hospital before they were discharged, demonstrating her deep commitment to their well-being. The patient and their spouse believe Kelly’s intervention saved their life.

October 2024, Kayla Rayko

Kayla, a registered nurse in the emergency department, was nominated for the DAISY Award by family members of her patient for her amazing care. The individuals who nominated her stated, "Kayla kept my grandmother calm as she was dealing with a blood clot in her lung. She comforted our family while giving my grandmother the very best care. She listened to all our family members concerns and was there for us, making sure we were all doing well throughout the whole process." Another family member noted, "As a daughter, I really appreciated that. She was able to make my mother feel comfortable, even though Mom was not feeling up to par."

August 2024, Kezia Bowser

Nursing isn’t always about getting to kiss grandmas on the cheek or making little kids feel better. It’s providing compassionate care to all patients, because all patients are entitled to high quality nursing care. It’s about working with and supporting your teammates through all situations to provide quality care to our community.

Join us in taking a moment to congratulate Kezia Bowser, RN from our Emergency Department, on being selected as the DAISY Award recipient for August 2024! Kezia’s exceptional care for patients from diverse backgrounds, coupled with her compassion, expertise, and patience, truly sets her apart. Thank you, Kezia, for your unwavering dedication and for making a profound difference in the lives of those you serve.

June 2024, Josie McKee

Josie, a nurse in the ICU, was recently nominated for the Daisy Award for her kindheartedness and dedication to her patients and her co-workers. Many times, Josie does whatever she can to help nurses on the unit, including staying after her shift to assist and educate. Josie takes great care of her patients and advocates for them.

May 2024, Karla Murphy

Karla, a shift coordinator, was selected for the 2024 Daisy Leader Award. Early in the morning of October 8th, the sleeping town of Indiana had a mass shooting. Karla was the Shift Coordinator scheduled during this time. She was able to manage patient and staff flow during a time that can be chaotic, when multiple traumas are arriving at an emergency department. During that time, Karla was able to coordinate staff, while still assisting physicians in providing care and stabilizing their patients. Several patients flew out of our emergency room or were sent by ambulance, and Karla kept track of each of them. She had everything under control and could direct everyone safely to their destination. She could do all this while remaining calm, and keeping the rest of the team calm, so everyone could provide the best care under such profound circumstances.

April 2024, Ann Greczek

Ann, a registered nurse in the ACU, was recognized for the kindness and empathy she has for her patients. Recently, a patient shared that she moved to Indiana from Pittsburgh by herself and then was diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma. She was devastated and frightened about the news and having surgery. When she woke up from her surgery in February, she met Ann, who made her feel safe and cared for during her time at IRMC. Before the patient left to go home, Ann helped her get into her daughter's car. Ann gave the patient a hug and a kiss on the cheek, and that made the patient feel grateful for the care that Ann had provided.

February 2024, Kevan Emhoff

Kevan, a nurse in our Emergency Department, was selected as the February DAISY recipient. A mother who brought her baby to the Emergency Department because the baby was having trouble breathing shared her encounter with Kevan. When the patient's mother recounted their experience, she said "Kevan was very professional and attentive to our needs. After being at the hospital for several hours and it was now late in the afternoon, Kevan offered me something for lunch. I realized I hadn't eaten all day. Such a small gesture was greatly appreciated after the scary morning I had with my son. Also, Kevan placed an IV in my baby so gently and quickly that my baby hardly even noticed it was happening. Kevan made me feel like my son was getting the best care he could possibly get. Also, I cannot thank him enough for also caring for me while I was alone at the bedside of my son."

December 2023, Chelsea Tunney

When a recent patient stayed overnight following surgery, they were in the care of Chelsea, a nurse on IRMC’s Surgical Specialty Care unit, who provided her with patience and kindness.

When the patient recounted her experience at IRMC, she said “Chelsea was the most patient and kind nurse. As a bariatric surgery patient, Chelsea was so understanding, as her family member underwent the same procedure as me. It put me at ease that she had firsthand experience. She told me that bariatric patients are her favorite because she knows that there is a significant positive change about to happen. The stories she shared with me were so positive and heartfelt. In addition to giving me great care, she allowed my children to “help her” with my vitals. They were so excited, and it eased the burden of my young children seeing me in a hospital bed.”

November 2023, Thomas Kenney

Emergency Room nurses are sometimes referred to as “the jack of all trades.” That saying is true for IRMC’s ED nurse, Thomas Kenney. From changing a co-worker’s tire in the parking lot after a late shift, to coming in to help on his day off, Thomas exhibits clinical competency and compassion. Thomas was selected as the December 2023 DAISY Award Recipient through a nomination from a co-worker.

While at a recent conference, Thomas was at a nearby gas station and witnessed a patient having a medical emergency. Thomas was able to talk to the individual and keep them as calm as possible while awaiting EMS arrival. Thomas was able to keep this individual and bystanders safe through skills he learned as an ED nurse as well as natural compassion.

June 2023, Audrey Mallory

While a patient had a short stay on our telemetry unit, they received surprising, life-changing news. As the family processed the information, Audrey was by the family and the patients side. Audrey was there to provide compassion and comforting hand in the patients care.

A family member of the patient noted, "Audrey took the time to listen and demonstrated great attributes that placed the needs of her patient first. Since so much was out of our control with the new diagnosis, there was comfort in knowing that our loved one was being taking care of attentively by Audrey. She made it evident that she truly cared. Before she completed her shift, she made sure there was nothing else our loved one needed and offered a much-needed hug (sometimes the smallest gesture can mean so much). Audrey’s interaction with us might have only been for two days, but it left an impact on our loved one and our family and for that, we are grateful."

February 2023, Brenda Cribbs

Nurses like Brenda Cribbs advocate for their patients when patients cannot advocate for themselves. In the fall of 2021, first time mom Lindsey was to deliver her baby at a neighboring hospital, but didn't make it there due to the severity of complications she began to experience. That's when Lindsey met Brenda.

"When I arrived at IRMC, I was terrified. I didn’t know any doctors and I was just about to deliver my first baby knowing I was having serious complications. Brenda was clear with me that they would not let anything happen to me or my baby on her watch. She meant it. The emergency C-section saved my life and my daughter. Doctors were planning for an emergency hysterectomy, but Brenda explored the idea of conservative treatment. The doctor listened to her and for that very reason, I am alive today and I still have the opportunity to have other children in the future because of her. She is the reason that I get to experience life as a mother. She is the true definition of an advocate. I know she makes every mother in labor & delivery heard and cared for the way they deserve during some of the most vulnerable times. Brenda is truly a God send and I am thankful for her!"

November 2022, Morgan Strait

Day and night, registered nurse Morgan Strait cares for patients in our Intensive Care Unit.

Recently, Morgan interacted with a patient who unexpectedly needed to spend the night in the ICU. The patient said of Morgan, "Despite my age, I’m a pretty active person and I HATE to be tied down or restricted in any way. I’m not the most patient patient. Fortunately for me, I had a nurse in the ICU named Morgan who was very understanding. She spent time with me when I felt anxious and insisted that I wanted to leave. Morgan was heaven sent. I feel blessed that she was my nurse that night. She is a credit to IRMC."

August 2022, Kim Thomas

Working as a Case Manager, Kim Thomas always goes above and beyond. Kim answers phones, answers call bells, and supports the floor staff in any way she can. Kim always asks if there is anything more she can do to help.

One specific patient required a transfer to another facility. Kim made it her personal mission to see that this patient received the care they deserved. Kim’s help was instrumental in obtaining a bed and getting the transport set up quickly to save this patient’s life, freeing up the care team to tend to the patient.

"Without Kim’s assistance, there would have been one less person caring for the patient and likely would have delayed the transfer."

May 2022, Tanya Altimus

During Nurses Week 2022, the Emergency Department team gathered to surprise Tanya with the May 2022 DAISY Award. A coworker of Tanya's said, "Every patient who walks into the Emergency Department and comes into contact with Tanya gets great care, regardless of their life choices or socioeconomic background." In a nomination letter on Tanya's behalf, the individual recalled a story where Tanya used her prior expertise as a phlebotomist to assist a patient. Not only did Tanya help the very emotional patient, but she spent a long time at the bedside, talking to and reassuring them that they are worthy. The patient, who may have otherwise left IRMC against medical advice, was admitted to the hospital and received the care she desperately needed.

When recalling the events that ensued that evening, Tanya's co-worker stated, "She (the patient) had a lot of nice things to say about Tanya and our hospital after this experience; I believe this made a difference, not only in the patient’s experience that evening, but also a difference in her life and her faith in healthcare. I believe that wherever this patient is right now, she knows that she can come to IRMC for help, thanks to Tanya’s care that day."

March 2022, Jeff Stewart

"Jeff is one of the best nurses I’ve ever had the pleasure to work with. He is the prime example of what a nurse should be. Jeff shows compassion to all patients, their families, and our staff. Jeff is known throughout IRMC for his willingness to help his fellow co-workers." These are just a few examples of why Jeff Stewart, a nurse on the medical supportive care unit, was nominated for the March 2022 DAISY Award. As an exemplary nurse, Jeff's co-workers say he is an "inspiration to others" and is always there when you need a hand. Jeff is described as trustable, dependable and an advocate for his patients.

November 2021, Pam Waltemire

Whatever the shift — day or night, weekend or weekday — extraordinary IRMC nurses are hard at work. Early one Monday morning, colleagues gathered to surprise Pam Waltemire with the November 2021 DAISY Award. Pam, a nurse on 7th telemetry, was nominated by the spouse of a patient, not only for her extraordinary care, but for seemingly simple acts that were incredibly meaningful to the family. The patients family stated, "Pam was very upbeat and pleasant. I’d like to know where she gets that much energy at 1:00 a.m. She was extremely patient with me as I explained the situation. She didn’t rush me and I could tell she was actively listening to and engaged in what I was saying. At one point, I realized I was repeating something I had already told her. She didn’t seem to mind a bit!" During the celebration, Pam's colleague said, "She definitely deserves it. She loves all of her patient’s whether she has them for 5 minutes or 5 days."

September 2021, Holly Gearhart

Nursing presented the first ever DAISY Award to Holly Gearhart, an outstanding nurse on 6th medical. Holly was recognized by a patient's family for the care and compassion she provided to their loved one. When Holly was presented with the award among her collages (and special guest in attendance, her daughter who is currently following in her mother's footsteps as a nurse) she said, "The entire unit deserves this award!"

The patients daughter-in-law said of Holly, "Holly, of course, is an excellent nurse! Very knowledgeable and very good at her job. But along with her expertise she holds a very caring spirit in her heart. We could feel that spirit each time she walked into our room."

January 2026, Rhonda Wickens

November 2025, Jaime Wilson

September 2025, Jackie Russella
A patient’s family shared how deeply grateful they were for the compassionate care their loved one received in the ICU. The staff not only cared for the patient but also supported the entire family with sensitivity, communication, and comfort during an incredibly difficult time. Their kindness and presence made a lasting impact that the family will always remember.

June 2025, Danielle Warr

Danielle Warr was nominated for a BEE Award because she went above and beyond, standing out among an already excellent care team. She took time to listen as the patient shared their emotional struggles and made sure they felt supported throughout their stay. Despite working night shifts, she helped them freshen up, carefully detangled and styled their hair, and went out of her way to provide comfort. Most importantly, she never made the patient feel like a burden. Her kindness and compassion left a lasting impression.

January 2025, Lakeyn Semetosky

Lakeyn, a nurse aide in CNC, was nominated for the BEE Award this January. She always delivers exceptional care even on her busiest days and went the extra mile by washing, brushing, and braiding a patient’s hair, giving them a full scrub, and changing their bed—all while training an orientee. Her positivity and dedication never falter. We’re lucky to have her!

September 2024, Stephanie Nehrig
Stephanie was part of the amazing team that cared for a co-workers family member. The individual who nominated Stephanie for the BEE Award noted, "She deserves to be recognized because during my family members stay at IRMC, she made them feel like family. During his stay in the hospital, Stephanie always made sure he had his favorite snacks and was always very quick to respond to his needs. She is a great nursing assistant who demonstrates compassion and has a contagious positive attitude.

July 2024, Madison Fedum
Madison, a nurse’s aide in CNC, was nominated by one of her co-workers for the BEE Award this July. Madison was chosen because she goes above and beyond with her kindness and compassion and takes the time to talk to and listen to her patients. She is quick to offer help to her patients and the staff around her. Recently, Madison took the time to brush a patient's hair and always makes sure her patients are clean and safe. If you ever talk to Madison about her job, it doesn’t take long to see that she loves what she does and cares so much for her patients.

April 2024, Heather Glance

Heather, a nursing assistant in the ACU, was recognized for her compassion and attention to detail. The patient who nominated Heather was not only a patient but also an employee at IRMC she stated, "Heather greeted me with a huge smile and welcomed me to the department. Yes, she was doing her job by making sure I was comfortable and happy but she went above and beyond. Checking on me often, bringing me a warm blanket without my asking. At one point, she asked if I was a coffee drinker. I am not a coffee drinker. She asked what I liked to drink. I was a little puzzled because I was not allowed anything to eat or drink before my procedure but I answered her that I typically drank iced tea, specifically diet. After our conversation, she went about her work. After about 5 minutes or so, she showed up with a diet iced tea and said she would have it ready for me when I was finished. They didn’t have any in their refrigerator but knew they stocked the other refrigerator earlier. She went on a hunt, found one, and marked my name on it before putting it in the refrigerator. When I came back from my procedure, knowing I hadn't had anything to eat or drink she had the tea waiting for me. It's the little things like having a cardboard box of iced tea waiting to make her patient happy.

June 2023 and September 2023, Danielle Rainey

Danielle, a nursing assistant on IRMC's Surgical Specialty Care unit, was recognized by a patient for her attentiveness and compassion. The patient noted, "Here at IRMC, she made me secure and feel welcome from my arrival on this floor. I felt like they wanted me here. I never had to use call button. It was like she was here for my every need. Helped me with meals, cut my food, and everything."

April 2023, Sherita Polenik

Sherita, an Emergency Department tech, was recognized by her co-workers for her compassionate care. When a patient needs extra reassurance, a friendly face or a warm blanket, Sherita is there. "When patients come into the Emergency Department, Sherita makes them feel welcomed and cared for from the moment they walk through the doors. She offers a calm reassurance and makes sure patient's needs are met to the best of her ability within the scope of practice."