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 Damman

Cathy Damman, 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.

Neeka Jacobsen Receives Outstanding Employee Award at Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is proud to announce Neeka Jacobsen, IADC, intake coordinator and counselor at the Recovery Center, as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Employee Award.

The Outstanding Employee 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 supportive workplace culture.

“Neeka goes far above and beyond what this hospital requires of her and is constantly trying to better herself so she can serve the community in a different capacity, if necessary,” a nomination letter shared. “She works to help various departments of the hospital and is willing to jump in wherever needed, whether the job is relevant to her position or not.

Another co-worker shared, “Neeka is continually thinking of ways to incorporate prevention into the community and represent the hospital in all aspects. She is always willing to jump in and help other departments with whatever is needed.”

Jacobsen was also recognized for her work with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper, an educational initiative designed to provide prevention resources and support for families affected by addiction.

“Neeka’s work with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper is amazing and is providing much-needed information for prevention, as well as helping families who may have loved ones who are addicted,” a nominator noted.

The Outstanding Employee Award was created to honor essential contributions of MRHC’s non-medical staff and their impact on patient experiences, organizational culture, and community outreach. Jacobsen’s recognition reflects her commitment to service, collaboration, and improving the lives of those she serves every day. Neeka will also be recognized during the 2026 Legacy Fund Gala on November 6, alongside the recipients of the DAISY Award, Impact Award, and scholarship awards, all of whom have been announced 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!