The Sunshine Award

October 2025

When a patient arrived at United Regional Physician Group (URPG) to establish care with a Primary Care Physician, he expressed feeling nervous due to past negative experiences with non-URPG providers. Unsure of which provider to choose, he turned to Cindy, who thoughtfully matched him with one — bringing him a sense of relief. After the appointment, the patient specifically thanked Cindy for her help and expressed his appreciation for the care he received. Since then, he continues to choose Cindy’s line at check-in for every visit. Cindy embodies United Regional’s ambition of delivering the highest quality of care to our friends and neighbors in the community. Congratulations on being a Sunshine honoree, Cindy!

October 2025

When a patient arrived for an appointment accompanied by his daughter, who has special needs, Alexis immediately stepped in to help. Understanding the importance of ensuring the father could complete his treatment, Alexis went above and beyond to create a calm and engaging experience for the little girl — reading her a book and even letting her play with her hair. Alexis, your ability to recognize and respond to a patient’s unique circumstances with compassion and creativity exemplifies outstanding care. Congratulations on being a Sunshine honoree!

June 2025

In a moment of crisis, three United Regional team members — Kate, Nacoa, and Iyanah — demonstrated extraordinary composure, teamwork, and swift decision-making that made a positive difference. As a patient was leaving Bridwell Tower, she suffered a severe injury by scraping her leg while trying to enter her vehicle, resulting in rapid and significant blood loss. Without hesitation, Iyanah called out for help, urgently requesting United Regional’s Campus Response Team — activated in critical emergencies to provide immediate support. Kate, a non-clinical staff member, responded immediately and decisively — contacting the operator to initiate the emergency response. Kate recalled the location of the bleeding control kit in the hallway. She retrieved it and delivered it to Iyanah, who applied a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. Nacoa was among the first responders and remained by the patient’s side, helping ensure she was safely transported to the Emergency Department. Kate, Nacoa, and Iyanah, thank you for working together as a team to provide critical support during a life-threatening emergency. Congratulations on receiving the Sunshine and DAISY Honoree Awards!

April 2025

Captain Brandon Alvarez was nominated for the sunshine award for the incredible service and care he provided to a patient whose shoes were left behind during his stay. A recently discharged patient reached out to United Regional for help in locating a pair of shoes left behind during their hospital stay. These shoes were crucial for the patient’s medical condition, and with a fixed income, replacing them was a significant concern.When Captain Alvarez learned of the situation, he took it upon himself to review over three hours of security footage to trace the patient’s journey through the hospital. His persistence paid off, and he was able to locate the shoes. He kept them safely in his office until they could be returned to the patient, who was overjoyed to receive them. Captain Brandon Alverz’s compassion and dedication embody the values of United Regional.

When United Regional urgently needed a rare, limited-distribution medication for a patient, Ketha took immediate action. Although there was no active account with the specific healthcare distribution company, Ketha immediately began making phone calls to the wholesaler and medication manufacturer, spending multiple hours pursuing options until a solution was found to obtain the medication for the patient. She then followed up with the Pharmacy department to ensure the medication was received and that the patient was doing well. Ketha’s positive attitude and determination, despite numerous obstacles, exemplify how United Regional’s staff provides the foundation for superior clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction. Congratulations on being a Sunshine Award honoree, Ketha!

March 2025

A patient with a rare genetic disorder, visiting for the holidays, fell ill and was admitted to United Regional. Initial treatment managed the patient’s condition, but optimal therapy required a rare medication. Nathan took it upon himself to research the diagnosis, understand the medication, and explain its necessity to the family. He answered their concerns and, once they agreed to the use of the optimal medication, worked tirelessly with physicians and multiple distributors to procure it. After the medication was initiated, the patient’s symptoms reduced to zero. Nathan continued follow-up communication with the patient and family to address any further concerns. The lengths Nathan took to understand and procure this medication demonstrate that he goes above and beyond to deliver compassionate care and is deeply committed to the well-being of our patients. Congratulations on receiving the Sunshine Award, Nathan!

December 23, 2024

A patient with a recent stage four cancer diagnosis had been in the hospital for 10 days. With the recent news that her cancer had spread, her family was in shock and devastated. Due to this unforeseen circumstance, the patient and her significant other decided to get married with the Justice of the Peace at the bedside. Brittany, a nurse who had been caring for the patient and had developed a sweet rapport with her, purchased a cake for the couple to honor their love for one another. This act of kindness brought tears to the couple’s eyes. Thank you for your attention to the significance of the couple’s union and your compassionate efforts to help celebrate their love, Brittany. You are a Difference Maker!

October 16, 2024

Several times a week, Cindy Blades, Billing, dedicates her lunch hour to visiting residents at a local nursing home, where she uses her expertise to explain insurance coverage and address billing questions. By guiding residents through healthcare complexities, she eases their concerns and ensures they understand their rights and benefits. Cindy, your compassion and commitment empower and reassure those you selflessly serve, making you a true Difference Maker!

September 5, 2024

After a patient confided in Sally, Wound Care, and other nurses about his suicidal thoughts and detailed plan, Sally quickly realized that this situation was beyond her department’s usual scope. She sought additional support and Michael, Psychiatry, was notified of the situation. He promptly responded in-person to the wound care area, where he gathered initial details from Sally and her team. Michael went straight to assist the patient, who was then transferred to the Emergency Department for further evaluation and care. The next day, Sally called the patient to ensure he was attending his follow-up appointments. Thank you, Sally and Michael, for your swift and proactive response in a critical situation — your actions potentially saved a life. Congratulations on being true Difference Makers!

July 2024

Cielo, Resource, developed a special relationship with a soon-to-be mother and her family. After sitting with the patient and learning more about her story and that her newborn had no clothing, Cielo took the initiative to personally purchase newborn items and deliver them to the family’s home. The family was incredibly grateful for Cielo’s generosity and willingness to ensure the baby was well-supplied. Congratulations on being a Difference Maker, Cielo!

June 11, 2024

Alishia showcased exceptional dedication by aiding a patient with a challenging life circumstance. Recognizing the patient’s unique family responsibilities amidst her health struggles, Alishia took charge of coordinating all essential tasks, allowing the patient to focus on her recovery. This included arranging a school bus pickup for the patient’s son directly from the hospital to his school, ensuring the family’s meals were taken care of, and even washing the son’s clothes. Alishia reassured her team of her readiness to provide any additional support the patient might need, even outside of her typical working hours. The patient expressed profound gratitude for Alishia’s above and beyond care, and her team is immensely proud of her. Alishia, your actions demonstrate your commitment to serving others. Congratulations on being a Difference Maker!

June 9, 2024

Following a leukemia diagnosis, a young patient required frequent treatments at a healthcare facility located out of town. Each treatment necessitated specific lab levels, prompting the family to seek a local option for lab work. This search led them to United Regional, where Marcus, the manager at Barnett Road Medical Building’s Laboratory, provided assistance. Recognizing the patient’s immunocompromised state, Marcus arranged appointments in advance, allowing the patient to bypass waiting rooms. The patient’s phlebotomist, Brayden, consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, resulting in appointments that never lasted longer than two minutes. The dedication of Marcus and Brayden has significantly eased the patient’s medical journey, prompting the family to extend a heartfelt thank you. Congratulations, Marcus and Brayden, on being Difference Makers!

June 8, 2024

Following a leukemia diagnosis, a young patient required frequent treatments at a healthcare facility located out of town. Each treatment necessitated specific lab levels, prompting the family to seek a local option for lab work. This search led them to United Regional, where Marcus, the manager at Barnett Road Medical Building’s Laboratory, provided assistance. Recognizing the patient’s immunocompromised state, Marcus arranged appointments in advance, allowing the patient to bypass waiting rooms. The patient’s phlebotomist, Brayden, consistently demonstrated exceptional skill, resulting in appointments that never lasted longer than two minutes. The dedication of Marcus and Brayden has significantly eased the patient’s medical journey, prompting the family to extend a heartfelt thank you. Congratulations, Marcus and Brayden, on being Difference Makers!

May 30, 2024

A patient, grappling with cancer and severe hair matting and loss, required a specialized bonnet. Searching in the supply areas, Suzanne could not locate an option suitable for the patient. Suzanne took the initiative and purchased  a special bonnet to give to the patient. This act of compassion deeply touched the patient, who was grateful for Suzanne’s kind gesture. Thank you for being a true Difference Maker, Susan!

May 7, 2024

Abbey and Anjelica had an elderly patient with a recent cancer diagnosis whose husband never left her side. Both Abbey and Anjelica noticed the husband needed his clothes washed. They took the initiative to wash and dry the man’s clothes at the Rathgeber House. The gentleman was extremely grateful for their act of compassion. Abbey and Anjelica, your initiative to serve makes you both true Difference Makers!

May 2, 2024

When Kami heard that her patient’s spouse needed rest but could not afford lodging for the night, she immediately called and purchased a room for the individual at a nearby hotel. Kami, you model what it looks like to be a Difference Maker through your selflessness and initiative!

May 1, 2024

During a patient’s admission, Paige identified inconsistencies between the patient’s electronic medical record and the information provided by the spouse. Upon deeper investigation, Paige uncovered that the patient was reported missing from another state. She promptly shared this crucial information with Brittanie, who conducted further inquiries and alerted hospital security of the situation. Thanks to their coordinated efforts, the patient was successfully reunited with their children for proper care. Paige and Brittanie, your attention to detail and willingness to go the extra mile makes you true Difference Makers!

February 28, 2024

One morning on his way to work, Jacob Todd, Cardiology, spotted a man on an overpass edge contemplating suicide. Acting without hesitation, Jacob pulled over and successfully guided the man to safety by pulling him back from the concrete barrier. After promptly calling 911, Jacob stayed with the man to offer prayers and a compassionate presence. Once police arrived, Jacob advocated for the man to receive mental health services, ultimately ensuring his transportation to a local mental care facility. Jacob’s uncommon courage— approaching, stopping, and rescuing—prevented a potential tragedy. Divine intervention placed Jacob in the right place at the right time for a life-saving impact. Thank you for being a true Difference Maker, Jacob!

February 16, 2024

Casey Gilbert, Radiology, observed a coworker experiencing breathing difficulties while choking on gum. As two colleagues were unable to dislodge it, Casey swiftly intervened, performing the Heimlich maneuver and successfully removing the gum. Casey, your quick thinking, attentiveness, and skill are deeply appreciated. Thank you for being a Difference Maker!

February 7, 2024

When Robert Bradberry, Laundry, heard a new employee’s bike was stolen while at work, he got in contact with the employee’s supervisor so that he could arrange to give the new employee a new bike. Thank you, Robert, for taking care of those in your work family and providing this staff member with a new bike! Robert is a Difference Maker!

January 29, 2024

Barb Simmons, Nursing Administration, was following up on funeral plans for a deceased patient when she contacted the next of kin, the patient’s young adult son. The young man had many questions for Barb as he had never made these decisions or types of arrangements before. Barb felt sympathy for this young man who was in such a difficult position. Over several phone calls, she answered his questions and explained his options and the entire process. She also made sure he received the sentimental jewelry that his father had left behind. Barb went above and beyond for this man;. She is truly a Difference Maker.