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.

Robin Heaton Answers Call to Nursing at MRHC

Robin Heaton

Robin Heaton

Robin Heaton’s nursing career is a testament to dedication, flexibility, and the pursuit of professional growth. Her journey from a college student unsure of her path to a seasoned nurse at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) showcases her passion for healthcare and commitment to serving others.

Robin’s journey began at Morningside College in 1999, where she initially pursued a major in biology. However, it wasn’t long before she recognized her calling to be a nurse and switched majors in 2000. Throughout nursing school, she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at several temp agencies in Sioux City. This experience enriched her understanding of patient care from multiple perspectives.

“I have always wanted to help people, and healthcare seemed to be in my future,” said Robin, RN, BSN. “Once I started college, nursing seemed like the obvious fit for me.”

After graduating in 2004, Robin began her professional nursing career at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC). She joined the newly established Neuro floor, where she was instrumental in the unit’s growth and development. This foundational experience in a specialized area honed her skills and set the stage for her future endeavors in healthcare.

In 2013, Robin moved to Hooper Care Center in Nebraska. Her role there further diversified her nursing experience, emphasizing the versatility required in different healthcare settings. In 2014, Robin’s career took a significant turn when she joined MRHC. Initially starting in the Acute Care unit, Robin’s adaptability and eagerness to learn led her to the surgery department in 2019 where she now serves as a surgical nurse. Her career at MRHC has allowed her to experience various facets of nursing.

“I am always impressed by the options at MRHC,” Robin expressed. “You can move from one department to another easily, and get many different types of experiences: from substance abuse treatment, to surgery, to skilled nursing, ER, clinic, Med/Surg, hospice, etc. I enjoy being involved in different aspects of healthcare, even ‘behind the scenes’ areas like insurance, billing, and policies. That type of exposure is invaluable, and you would not be able to do that at a bigger facility without completely changing roles. Plus, most nursing roles are specialized in larger facilities, and you would not get to touch so many areas of nursing.”

This unique ability to explore different nursing specialties within the same institution is a distinctive advantage of working at MRHC. In addition to seamlessly transitioning between departments and gaining a wide range of experiences, Robin is also grateful for the flexibility and supportive environment at the hospital.

“MRHC is very family-oriented and goes out of the way to help you put your family first. They have allowed me to change positions as my family and career needs changed,” Robin shared. “Joy (Blom), especially, has been phenomenal in supporting my work/family balance. She truly understands how important your family is and will do whatever is needed to help you. I couldn’t ask for better support from a manager.”

“Robin is an excellent asset to the surgical team,” said Director of Surgical Services, Joy Blom, RN. “She is very compassionate in caring for her patients. She always goes above and beyond to make sure her patients have everything they need and explains things in detail to ensure they understand.” Joy Blom

Robin’s current role in MRHC’s surgery department is one she cherishes deeply. The close-knit team and the opportunity to contribute to various aspects of patient care resonate with her professional and personal values. She also notes how rewarding it is to care for the members of her community.

“I love that I am working in my community,” Robin expressed. “I am minutes from my home and my family. My friends and co-workers are the ones taking care of my family, and me as a patient. That close relationship is not something that often happens in other places.”

Robin notes that nursing is a uniquely flexible profession that can evolve with an ever-changing lifestyle and variety of family needs. For students considering a career in nursing, Robin offers a few pieces of advice.

“Always choose the path that aligns with your circumstances and goals, and keep your long-term goals in mind,” said Robin. “There are so many options to fit any life/family situation and opportunities to help you achieve your career goals. At MRHC, there are a variety of ways to further your education with tuition assistance. Take advantage of those opportunities!”

Robin’s journey is a great example of how a career in nursing can evolve and thrive within a supportive and dynamic healthcare environment like MRHC. If you are interested in joining the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

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.

Jill Arp Makes Community-Wide Impact

Jill Arp

At MRHC, one healthcare professional stands out for her dedication, versatility, and commitment to the well-being of both patients and the community. Jill Arp is a nurse whose journey into healthcare began with a passion for caring for others during college as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA). Today, she wears multiple hats at MRHC, demonstrating resilience and adaptability, especially during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“When I worked as a CNA in college, I enjoyed taking care of people and getting to know them. At that point, I changed my college major from elementary education to nursing,” shared Arp, RN, BSN. A pivotal decision that would set the stage for a fulfilling career dedicated to serving others’ health needs.

As the Infection Preventionist, Employee Health Nurse, Disaster Preparedness Coordinator, and Safety and Security Officer, Arp has no shortage of responsibilities at MRHC. Additionally, being a nurse allows her to contribute directly to patient care in different departments as needed. Her work in these pivotal roles not only makes a difference in ensuring patient and staff health and safety, but she also makes a difference community-wide.

“Jill is a compassionate nurse who views patient care on a community level, offering important services to our local businesses to help keep their employees well,” said Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “Jill’s community leadership in her infection control role was especially instrumental throughout the recent pandemic.”

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented challenges for healthcare institutions worldwide, and MRHC was no exception. Arp played a crucial role in guiding MRHC’s response to the pandemic, collaborating with state and local authorities, and ensuring the safety of both patients and staff. Her efforts included extensive education, coordination of vaccination clinics, and participation in regional healthcare coalitions, highlighting her leadership and dedication during times of crisis.

“The pandemic was very challenging; it was like nothing I’ve ever had to deal with before,” Arp reflected. “There was a lot of collaboration with many different people. We experienced so much change, and our staff accepted it all with grace. They were all willing to help other departments, do different jobs, and step out of their comfort zones. Not only during the pandemic, but on a daily basis. I am proud of our staff and how they took care of our patients and found ways to make it all work.”

Collaborative efforts among Arp and other healthcare partners have continued to be instrumental in addressing community health needs. Arp works with Carroll County Public Health on various initiatives to address public health challenges, particularly in promoting preventive measures like flu vaccinations and regular health check-ups.

Arp attributes her ability to thrive in such a busy and demanding role to the supportive and flexibile work environment of MRHC. This allows her to balance her professional responsibilities with her family commitments, showcasing MRHC’s commitment to employee well-being.

“MRHC is a fun and great place to work, especially because of who is part of our team. From the environmental services staff to the doctors, everyone works well together for the best care of the patient,” said Arp. “MRHC is also flexible, and that’s what I need for my family.”

Through collaboration, flexibility, and a shared commitment to excellence, Arp and her colleagues at MRHC continue to make a positive impact on the health and well-being of Manning and its surrounding communities. If you are interested in joining this team of healthcare professionals and helping make a difference in the community, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.

MRHC Inspires Ertz to Become a Nurse

Mya Ertz

Mya Ertz“I always knew that I wanted to help people,” shared Mya Ertz, RN at MRHC. “I found that nursing had many different avenues to care for others, so my junior year of high school I met with Jill Arp about the tuition assistance program through MRHC and I was sold. My passion to help others, in addition to the tuition assistance and flexibility in roles at MRHC, encouraged me to pursue nursing.”

The tuition assistance program at MRHC has helped many employees like Ertz advance in their nursing careers by paying for their tuition and books. Once an employee passes their boards, they return to work at MRHC and “work off” their tuition assistance. For every hour of work, $1.00 of the tuition assistance is “paid back.” The employee never actually pays MRHC. They simply go to work, use their education to properly care for patients, and then, over time, their tuition is paid back.

“The tuition assistance program is an amazing opportunity for people to gain experience in the field and complete school without the financial burden of student debt,” said Ertz. “I worked at MRHC as a CNA and LPN through school and gained valuable experience as I completed my RN.”

Ertz has now completed her schooling and has established a rewarding career at MRHC that she enjoys.

“I like working at MRHC for many reasons,” said Ertz. “Not only is MRHC close to home, but it also employs many of my close friends. The atmosphere is amazing, even in passing people say hi with a smile. The hospital is my home away from home.”

As Ertz looks toward the future of her career, she is excited to continue to learn and grow and is grateful for all the opportunities she will have at MRHC.

“I want to gain experience in a diversity of roles to determine how I can best care for patients and my family,” Ertz shared. “Another reason MRHC is a great place to work, I can help in different departments and roles!”

Because of Ertz’s passion for healthcare and eagerness to grow in her career, she has become a valuable asset to MRHC.

“Mya is a very determined individual and takes pride in all her work. If she sets her mind to something she accomplishes it,” said MRHC Clinic Director, Shelby Dickson, RN. “She is a great team player and always provides the best care possible to our patients. She goes above and beyond for her team and our patients. Mya has a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and has been a great addition to our team.”

For anyone who may be considering a career in healthcare, specifically in nursing, Ertz shares this advice.

“Nursing is a field with vastly different roles. The options are endless, and opportunities are bountiful.”To join the MRHC team or learn more about the tuition assistance program, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Blazek Finds Opportunity to Grow Nursing Career at MRHC

Crisentia Blazek

Crisentia BlazekAfter making her way to the United States from Indonesia, Crisentia Blazek eventually made Iowa her home and began her career as a nurse at MRHC.

Blazek was born and raised in Indonesia, and after graduating high school, she moved to Kansas to study nursing at Hesston College. She obtained associate degrees in arts and nursing, and a bachelor’s degree in nursing. She later moved to Iowa after marrying a local resident.

“My husband encouraged me to apply at MRHC because of its connection to the Manning community which is known for being forward-thinking,” Blazek shared. “MRHC has been a welcoming place for me to start my career as a nurse. My co-workers try to help whenever I need it. The providers are willing to answer questions I have about diseases or treatments. The community is there for you during the good times in life, such as welcoming a new baby or an achievement at work, as well as the challenging times, like grieving the loss of a loved one.”

Blazek started her career as a full-time nurse in the acute/ER department at MRHC in 2018. In 2022, she transitioned to the Specialty Clinic. She works with and assists different specialty providers, including a general surgeon, podiatrist, cardiologist, orthopedic surgeon, ENT specialist, dermatologist, wound care provider, gynecologist, urologist, and mental health professional. Blazek also provides outpatient services including, but not limited to, infusions, injections, and dressing changes.

“Crisentia has been a great addition to our specialty clinic here at MRHC,” shared Specialty Clinic Manager, Elaine Macumber, RN. “She is a fast learner and has taken on multiple training courses to provide expertise in infusion nursing, cardiac stress testing, and caring for patients who need outpatient nurse visits for various reasons. She also brings kindness to her patient care, something that our patients notice right away.”

While MRHC is thankful to have a talented and considerate nurse like Blazek, she is mutually grateful for the opportunities she has had to grow her nursing career in a rural community.

“MRHC has supported and helped me by providing feedback during my annual evaluations, offering continuing education inside and outside the facility, and giving me an opportunity to work in different departments,” said Blazek.

Not only has Blazek directly benefited from the resources and support MRHC offers, but her sisters are also among many others who have been able to take advantage of the hospital’s dedication to help current and prospective employees continue their education and grow in their careers.

“MRHC shows that they value their employees by providing financial assistance for college education, offering shift choices for employees who are taking college classes, and giving opportunities to learn new skills through job shadowing,” Blazek shared. “My family and I are appreciative of MRHC’s focus on bettering the skills of its workforce.”To join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Macumber Makes Career Strides at MRHC

Elaine Macumber

When Elaine Macumber and her husband, Jeremia, moved back to Manning, there weren’t any dental assistant jobs available in the Manning community. Having previously worked as a dental assistant, she was interested in continuing her career in the medical field without having to travel out of town, so she took a job at MRHC as a medical records/admissions staff for about a year until moving into materials management. One day, MRHC Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, called Macumber and ultimately changed the trajectory of her career. Elaine Macumber

“I told Elaine, ‘I think you would make a great nurse and we’ll even pay for you to go to school’, and she did! She is not the only one. We try to mentor and help our employees with leadership development both externally and internally,” shared Andersen, RN, BSN.

Macumber went on to utilize the tuition program at MRHC to complete her LPN and RN education at Western Iowa Tech Community College.

“MRHC has provided me with a lot of career advancement,” Macumber said. “With the tuition assistance, the decision to go to school was easier on me. We didn’t have to worry about the financial obligation that school has with it, and I could focus on learning. Nursing school is a tough schedule anyways and with flexible hours at MRHC I was able to work full-time while in school and it really helped me get through. There are also a lot of great nurses at MRHC who helped me learn quickly.”

Macumber started her nursing career at MRHC working in ER/acute care before moving to the specialty clinic as a staff nurse. She took on additional training in the specialty clinic to be able to mix and administer chemotherapy and perform cardiac stress tests.

“The experience working in acute care and ER was great. I got to see a lot of good teamwork and you get to see a lot and learn from the house supervisors who guide you,” Macumber shared.

Now serving as the Specialty Clinic Manager, Macumber manages staffing and takes care of all specialty clinic provider needs. She will also continue as a clinical nurse in the specialty clinic performing infusions, assisting patients in consultations with the specialty doctors, and educating patients prior to surgical procedures.

“I really enjoy the specialty clinic,” Macumber said. “We have ten different clinics that we assist with, so every day is something different. I enjoy talking with the providers and learning as much as I can from them. I plan to work in the specialty clinic for a long time and we hope to expand our services when the need in the community presents.”

Not only does Macumber enjoy her role in the specialty clinic because of the variety of her work and the ability to continually learn something new, the people also make a big impact.

“I love the team environment here at MRHC, every employee has the patient’s interests at heart,” shared Macumber. “We work together to make our patients’ experience as pleasant as possible and still have fun while we do it.”

Specialty Clinic Services

The MRHC specialty clinic has several specialty doctors that see patients in Manning on a regular basis. Services include cardiology; dermatology; ear, nose, and throat (ENT); infusions; mental health; OB-GYN; orthopedics; pain clinic, podiatry; surgery; urology; and wound care. Visit www.mrhcia.com/events to learn more about the specialty area, the specialist or doctor(s) who provide the clinic, and what day they are available. For more information or to set up a consultation with any of the doctors, please call (712) 655-8100.

If you would like to join the MRHC team, visit www.mrhcia.com/careers or call (712) 655-2072 for more information on current job openings.

Andersen Fulfills Her Passion for Rural Healthcare at MRHC

Michelle AndersenMRHC Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Michelle Andersen has always wanted to help people, making her career choice of going into healthcare an easy one.

“I was a CNA in high school and college, went to nursing school, and obtained my associate degree in nursing right out of high school,” said Andersen, RN, BSN, “I was armed with my RN degree at the ripe age of 22, ready to begin making a difference in the lives of patients.”

Andersen began her nursing career in Manning at MRHC. After having children, she switched to PRN status, worked in long-term care as a resource nurse, did travel nursing, and served as the nursing adjunct clinical instructor for nursing students. Once her children were in school, she returned to MRHC full-time and continued to teach clinicals.

“I enjoyed clinical instruction with the next generation of nurses,” Andersen said. “I have had many great mentors over the years who have helped me become the nurse I am today. I understand the importance of leadership roles and their impact not only on employees but also the patients we serve.”

With a desire to grow into a leadership role and help future nurses, Andersen went back for her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree in 2008. After completing it in 2011, she became the Inpatient Director of Nursing at MRHC. She eventually took on outpatient nursing services as well and became the Director of Nursing. Finally, in 2019, Andersen accepted her current role as Chief Nursing Officer.

“I was always encouraged to seek education and advancement at MRHC. Through our tuition reimbursement program, I was able to take health coach courses and become certified to better understand transitions in care as well as obtain my BSN,” said Andersen.

Andersen continues to ensure that new nurses at MRHC receive additional training and have a mentor to turn to as they transition from nursing school to the frontlines of nursing.

“Rural healthcare has always been my passion,” Andersen shared. “Here at MRHC, it is important for us to develop our leaders, encourage professional growth, mentor our young employees, and pay for schooling with our tuition reimbursement program.”

Not only is Andersen continuing to help all employees grow and advance in their careers at MRHC, but she is also working to position rural healthcare to have a successful future.

“Michelle was recently accepted into the nationally recognized Rural Hospital CNO Certification Program,” shared MRHC CEO, Linn Block, RN, BSN, MHA. “She will have the opportunity to build on her many years of hospital leadership experience and help prepare MRHC for the continuing challenges we face in rural healthcare.”

For a list of current openings or to apply at MRHC, visit our Join Our Team page or call (712) 655-2072 for more information.