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SGMC Health ICU Team Members Recognized as Health System Heroes

SGMC Health has named members of its Intensive Care Unit team as Health System Heroes, recognizing their compassion, empathy, and commitment to supporting patients and families through some of life’s most difficult moments.

The recognition honors Nana Afua Addo, MD; Venkata Gandi, MD; Kristi Ashworth, RN; Kelley Howell, RN; Conner Denton, RN; Margarita Monfort, RN; Brianna Willis, RN; and Tana Macera, NP, whose care left a lasting impression on a family coping with the sudden loss of a loved one. While the clinical care provided was exceptional, it was the team’s humanity and genuine concern that made the greatest impact.

Throughout the family’s time in the ICU, caregivers consistently went above and beyond to provide comfort and support. Although they were not from the area and were simply passing through, the family was so impressed by the compassion shown by the ICU team that they later contacted SGMC Health’s Administrative team to share their gratitude. Team members took the time to introduce themselves, explain their roles, answer questions, and ensure the family felt informed and cared for every step of the way. They checked on loved ones throughout their shifts and remained present during moments of grief, offering compassion, reassurance, and a listening ear when it was needed most.

“This recognition reflects the compassionate culture that defines SGMC Health,” said Cherise Giddens, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer. “Our ICU team demonstrated what it means to provide human kindness alongside exceptional clinical care. Their willingness to support this family during such a profound loss exemplifies the very best of our organization.”

The recognition highlights the extraordinary difference caregivers can make beyond medical treatment alone. Through simple acts of kindness, empathy, and presence, these team members helped bring comfort, dignity, and peace to a family facing one of life’s greatest challenges.

SGMC Health participates in an array of recognition programs to honor employees who most exemplify the organization’s tagline, “Remarkable People, Extraordinary Care, Human Kindness.”

To learn more, visit sgmc.org/recognition.

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