2026 MRHC Employee Awards

Manning Regional Healthcare Center congratulates three staff members who were recently recognized for their exceptional performance.

DAISY Award – Robin Heaton

Robin Heaton, RN, BSN, surgical nurse at Manning Regional Healthcare Center, received the 2026 DAISY Award in recognition of the compassionate, patient-centered care she provides every day. Robin was nominated by a patient who shared how her kindness, reassurance, and attention to detail helped make a difficult surgical experience feel comfortable and supported. From celebrating special moments with patients to delivering exceptional follow-up care, Robin consistently goes above and beyond to ensure every patient feels valued and cared for.

“Robin’s attention to detail and compassion for patients is second to none. She truly makes every patient feel cared for, heard, and supported during some of their most vulnerable moments,” shared one patient.

Read more about Robin and the incredible nominations she received here.

Outstanding Employee Award – Neeka Jacobsen

Neeka Jacobsen, IADC, intake coordinator and counselor at the Recovery Center, was honored with the 2026 Outstanding Employee Award for her dedication to patients, coworkers, and the communities MRHC serves. Neeka is recognized for her willingness to help wherever needed, her passion for supporting individuals through recovery, and her involvement in community outreach efforts such as the Hidden in Plain Sight camper initiative. Her compassion, positivity, and commitment to service make a meaningful impact on those around her each day.

“Neeka is always willing to step up and help others. Her compassion, encouragement, and dedication to our patients and community truly make her an outstanding employee,” said one nominator.

Read more about Neeka and some of her nominations here.

Impact Award – Cathy Dammonn

Cathy Dammann, office and patient coordinator for Senior Life Solutions, received the 2026 MRHC Impact Award for the lasting difference she makes in the lives of patients and families through her kindness and support. Patients who nominated Cathy described her as caring, uplifting, and genuinely invested in helping others through difficult times. Through her compassionate approach and positive attitude, Cathy creates an environment where patients feel encouraged, respected, and never alone.

One patient shared, “Cathy has such a caring heart and always knows how to make people feel welcome and supported. She has made an incredible impact on so many lives through her compassion and encouragement.” 

Read more about Cathy and testimonials from some of Cathy’s patients here. 

Thank you to each of you for your continued commitment to MRHC. We are proud to have you on our team!

All award recipients will be formally recognized at the MRHC Legacy Gala on November 6th, where the community is invited to celebrate these individuals who’s dedication continue to strengthen the mission of Manning Regional Healthcare Center.

Robin Heaton Receives DAISY Award at Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Robin Heaton, RN, BSN, a dedicated surgical nurse at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), was recently honored with the 2026 DAISY Award for her outstanding compassion, clinical skill, and patient-centered care.

The DAISY Award recognizes nurses who go above and beyond in providing extraordinary care to patients and their families. Robin was nominated by a patient who shared a heartfelt account of the compassionate care they received during and after a surgical procedure.

“I went in for a procedure on my birthday. Robin wished me a happy birthday and was very compassionate when it came to hooking in the IV, even going to great lengths to find a good vein in my hand,” the patient shared. “After surgery, she got me coffee and even brought me extra sugar and creamer. The next day, after having some issues, she was very attentive about what they could do to help. She constantly checked on me and made the situation a positive spin on having a surgical procedure done.”

Robin has been a valued member of MRHC since 2014, consistently demonstrating compassionate care. Her calm demeanor, kindness, and willingness to go the extra mile help create a positive experience for patients during what can often be a stressful time.

“What an honor for someone so deserving,” said Director of Surgical Services Joy Blom, RN. “Robin’s attention to detail and care for our patients is like no other. I am so happy to have her on our surgical team.”

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes to honor nurses who demonstrate extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care. More than 2,500 healthcare facilities worldwide participate in the DAISY Award program. At MRHC, any nurse who exemplifies the organization’s mission and values is eligible to be nominated by patients, families, coworkers, or community members.

MRHC is proud to recognize Robin Heaton as the 2026 DAISY Award honoree for the remarkable and compassionate care she provides every day. Her dedication to healing and kindness toward others make her the perfect example of nursing excellence. Robin will also be recognized during the 2026 Legacy Fund Gala on November 6, alongside the recipients of the Outstanding Employee Award, Impact Award, and scholarship awards, all of whom will be announced later this month.

 

MRHC Employee Awards

Manning Regional Healthcare Center congratulates three staff members who were recently recognized for their exceptional performance.

Steph BrinkDAISY Award – Steph Brink

Steph Brink, a med-surg and ER nurse, received the DAISY Award. She was recognized for her outstanding compassion, clinical skill, and patient-centered care. Known for her positivity, vibrant energy, and heartfelt dedication, Steph consistently goes above and beyond for patients and colleagues. Whether supporting individuals in recovery, comforting a parent in the ER, or brightening the hospital halls with her warm smile and glow-in-the-dark scrubs, Steph exemplifies everything the DAISY Award stands for.

“She is compassionate and supportive. Her energy and enthusiasm are an inspiration to all,” shared one patient.

Read more about Steph and the incredible nominations she received here.

Shelli BarsbyOutstanding Employee Award – Shelli Barsby

Shelli Barsby, the acute care administrative assistant, received the MRHC Outstanding Employee Award. Shelli was nominated by her co-workers, who recognized her dedication, exceptional work ethic, and positive attitude.

This award honors an MRHC employee who consistently performs high-quality work and extra duties beyond those normally assigned, works well with others, assists whenever needed, has a positive attitude, displays exceptional dependability, and creates a positive work environment. Qualities that Shelli undeniably possesses, making her a popular nomination and an easy choice for the award.

“She is the glue that holds us all together—the most organized of us all. If you can’t find something, she most likely knows where it is or how to find it,” said one nominator. 

Read more about Shelli and some of her nominations here.

Taylor NelsonImpact Award – Taylor Nelson

Therapy Director Taylor Nelson won the first MRHC Impact Award. This honor recognizes outstanding non-nursing employees whose care and dedication have left a meaningful and lasting impression on patients. Nominations come directly from patients who felt personally impacted by the care they received.

As the inaugural recipient, Taylor Nelson has set a high standard. He has made a profound impression on patients with his knowledge, compassion, and sincere commitment to helping others heal.

One patient shared, “Taylor was so sincere and caring. I was really impressed with how much time he took to explain to me what was going on. I highly recommend Taylor, and I am so grateful for his help,“ 

Read more about Taylor and testimonials from some of Taylor’s patients here. 

Thank you to each of you for your continued commitment to MRHC. We are proud to have you on our team!

Steph Brink Receives DAISY Award at Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Steph Brink

Steph Brink, RN, a dedicated nurse in the Med/Surg and Emergency Departments at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), was recently honored with the 2025 DAISY Award for her outstanding compassion, clinical skill, and patient-centered care.

Known for her positivity, vibrant energy, and heartfelt dedication, Steph consistently goes above and beyond for patients and colleagues. Whether supporting individuals in recovery, comforting a parent in the ER, or brightening the hospital halls with her warm smile and glow-in-the-dark scrubs, Steph exemplifies everything the DAISY Award stands for.

“She is compassionate and supportive. Her energy and enthusiasm are an inspiration to all,” shared one patient. Another nomination stated, “She loves us all, even when we can’t love ourselves. All she wants is for us to succeed. Truly loves her job.”

Brink’s care spans across multiple departments, from the Recovery Center to the Emergency Room and Acute Care, and her impact is felt in every corner of MRHC. “Steph makes herself available for all the clients and is wonderful to have in our department,” noted one colleague. “Steph goes above and beyond for any patient,” said a fellow staff member. Another added, “She’s prompt, considerate, and patient to every client she has contact with. She’s a wonderful nurse who is deserving of this honor.”

Steph’s patients frequently mention her kindness, attentiveness, and the genuine joy she brings to her work. Described as “helpful, understanding, and supportive,” and someone with a “big heart” and “great personality,” Steph has earned the deep respect and affection of those she serves. “She is extraordinary. My physical and mental comfort were very important to her. Her skill and knowledge were seamless. I was comforted and confident with being in her presence,” a patient shared.

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes to honor nurses who demonstrate extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care. More than 2,500 healthcare facilities worldwide participate in the DAISY Award program. At MRHC, any nurse who exemplifies the organization’s mission and values is eligible to be nominated by patients, families, coworkers, or community members.

MRHC is proud to recognize Steph Brink as the 2025 DAISY Award honoree for the remarkable and compassionate care she provides every day. Her dedication to healing and commitment to uplifting others make her the perfect example of nursing excellence.

Joy Blom Receives DAISY Award at MRHC

Daisy award

Joy Blom, RN, the director of surgical services at MRHC was recently recognized for her exceptional role as a nurse and awarded the 2024 DAISY Award.

Blom consistently delivers exceptional care that has not gone unnoticed. Numerous patients have expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the “amazing”, “excellent”, and “compassionate care” that she provides.

These testimonials, among many others, made Blom the perfect recipient of the 2024 DAISY Award, a program that honors and celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day. DAISY Award honorees are recognized within their department, receive an award certificate, and are publicly acknowledged. Blom was surprised with the award by her co-workers and family on Friday, May 10th.

Daisy award“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Joy for many years,” said Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “She has always been selfless caring for our community. It has been a pleasure to watch her grow in her nursing career at MRHC. Joy has thrived here, and her contributions have been invaluable to our organization. She played a pivotal role in reintroducing orthopedics, pioneering new procedures, and consistently finding solutions to benefit our patients, their families, and her colleagues. Thank you, Joy, for your extraordinary care of those we serve!”Joy and her family

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease, ITP, in 1999.

During his hospitalization, the Barnes family deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. More than 2,500 healthcare facilities in 15 countries and 50 states now honor extraordinary nurses with The DAISY Award.

Eligibility

All nurses who exemplify MRHC’s mission and values and demonstrate our vision daily are eligible to be nominated. DAISY Award honorees are nurses who provide compassionate and remarkable care while demonstrating clinical excellence. Anyone, including patients, patients’ family members, staff members, physicians, visitors, and volunteers, is welcome to nominate any nurse whom they believe is deserving of the award.

Kathy Freese Receives DAISY Award

Kathy Freese

Kathy FreeseKathy Freese, a registered nurse who works in the medical/surgical department, emergency room, and Recovery Center at MRHC as recently recognized for her exceptional role as a nurse and awarded the 2023 DAISY Award.

Freese’s excellent care as a nurse has never gone unnoticed – several patients nominated Kathy for the DAISY Award, sharing their praises about the great care she provides.

“Andrew and I could never thank you enough for all you did for us. You were a Godsend,” shared one patient. Another added that Kathy “is always kind, smiley, and non-judgmental. You could tell she really cares!!”

These testimonials, among many others, made Freese the perfect recipient for the 2023 DAISY Award, a program that honors and celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day. DAISY Award Honorees are recognized within their department, receive an award certificate, and are publicly recognized. Freese was surprised with the award by her co-workers and family on Wednesday, July 28th.

“Kathy is an empathic nurse who always puts her patients at the center of her nursing practice,” said Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “Thank you, Kathy for taking extraordinary care of those we serve!”

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease, ITP, in 1999.

During his hospitalization, the Barnes family deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. More than 2,500 health care facilities in 15 countries and 50 states now honor extraordinary nurses with The DAISY Award.

Eligibility

All nurses who exemplify MRHC’s mission and values and demonstrate our vision daily are eligible to be nominated. DAISY Award honorees are nurses who provide compassionate and remarkable care while demonstrating clinical excellence. Anyone, including patients, patients’ family members, staff members, physicians, visitors, and volunteers, are welcome to nominate any nurse whom they believe is deserving of the award.

Michelle Price Receives DAISY Award at MRHC

Michelle Price Receives DAISY Award

Caring. Passionate. Helpful. Patient. Kind. Genuine. Positive. Knowledgeable. A ray of sunshine. These are just a few of the words patients and co-workers use to describe Michelle Price, LPN, Recovery Center nurse at Manning Regional Healthcare Center. Michelle recently received the DAISY Award, recognizing her exceptional role as a nurse at MRHC.

Michelle’s excellent care as a nurse has never gone unnoticed – Recovery Center clients frequently share their praises about the great care she provides.

“I’ve never left her office feeling anything but happy and
thankful she is in the nursing field.”
“Michelle has made a huge impact in my recovery.”
“She makes sure we’re taken care of. She goes out of her way to make sure
we have what we need, and she truly cares.”
“You can tell she loves us and her job.”
“Michelle always has patients’ best interests in mind!”
“She listens very well and always follows through patients’ requests or needs.”

These testimonials, among many others, made Michelle the perfect recipient for the 2022 DAISY Award, a program that honors and celebrates the skillful and compassionate care nurses provide every day.

“The abundance of good reviews from clients, watching her positive attitude and good work ethic, and the times clients would be sad to see that she’s gone for a day (which is rare – but you can tell a difference) prove that it’s not the same without Michelle,” shared the Recovery Center staff. “She never leaves without making sure all the clients are taken care of and does what she can to make their stay the best as possible. She’s a huge asset!”

Michelle Price Receives DAISY Award

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease ITP in 1999.

During his hospitalization, the Barnes family deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he died, they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. More than 2,500 health care facilities in 15 countries and 50 states now honor extraordinary nurses with The DAISY Award.

DAISY Award Honorees are recognized within their department, receive an award certificate, and are publicly recognized. Michelle was surprised with this award by her co-workers and family on May 9th.

Eligibility

All nurses who exemplify MRHC’s mission and values and demonstrate our vision daily are eligible to be nominated. DAISY Award honorees are nurses who provide compassionate and remarkable care while demonstrating clinical excellence. Anyone, including patients, patients’ family members, staff members, physicians, visitors, and volunteers, are welcome to nominate any nurse whom they believe is deserving of the award.

Roxi Doyel Receives DAISY Award

Roxi Doyel

Roxi DoyelThroughout Roxi Doyel’s career at MRHC, she has been known to deliver superb nursing care. And Roxi’s great care hasn’t gone unnoticed – patients will frequently return specific comments calling her out on all the great care she provides. That’s why she is a perfect recipient for the 2021 DAISY Award, a program that honors and celebrates the skillful, compassionate care nurses provide every day.

“Roxi is a very thoughtful and compassionate nurse who is always going above and beyond for patients,” says Shelby Dickson, Clinic Manager at MRHC. “She is always willing to help patients in need. She is a wonderful employee who exemplifies positive teamwork in the workplace. She is always jumping in to help her coworkers, doing whatever is needed to get the job done. We are so lucky to have Roxi Doyel at MRHC!”

Roxi has served as the nurse for Dr. Douglas McLaws at MRHC for the past nine years. He shares, “There is absolutely no way I could ever do what I do without Roxi being there to make it happen. Beside every good provider there stands a fantastic nurse. Without a doubt she has a love for all the people we have the honor of helping,” said McLaws.

Coworkers also appreciate Roxi’s dedication to fellow employees and patients. “The things that stick out to me are her wealth of knowledge, bedside manner, and the time she takes with each patient encounter,” said Jackie Blackwell, Director of Quality. “Roxi serves as a reliable resource with a positive attitude. She is an outstanding nurse and so deserving of this award.”

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes after he died from complications of the autoimmune disease ITP in 1999.

During his hospitalization, the Barnes family deeply appreciated the care and compassion shown to Patrick and his entire family. When he passed away they felt compelled to say “thank you” to nurses in a very public way. More than 2,500 health care facilities in 15 countries and 50 states now honor extraordinary nurses with The DAISY Award.

DAISY Award Honorees are recognized within their department, receive an award certificate and are publicly recognized. Roxi was surprised with this award by her coworkers and family on May 7th and a public reception was held on May 11th.

Eligibility

All nurses who exemplify MRHC’s mission and values, and demonstrate our vision on a daily basis, are eligible to be nominated. DAISY Award honorees are nurses who provide compassionate and remarkable care while demonstrating clinical excellence. Anyone – patients, patients’ family members, staff members, physicians, visitors, and volunteers – are welcome to nominate any nurse whom they believe is deserving of the award.