I am writing to nominate the exceptional perioperative services team, including Sterile Processing, at Oconee Memorial for the DAISY Team Award in recognition of the outstanding care they provided to both my husband and my mother over the past year.

My husband underwent a Nissen fundoplication surgery, followed by an emergent return to surgery on the next day. From the very beginning, the entire perioperative team demonstrated nothing short of the highest standard of care. As a manager in this department, I already knew firsthand how incredible this team is, but seeing them care for my husband, someone so close to me, stirred so many emotions. Although I had complete trust in their skill and ability, the fear of the unknown—his recovery and his outcome—was ever-present.

Witnessing my husband, my rock, so vulnerable and sick was one of the hardest things I have ever experienced. Our family has endured a lot over the past few years, and the thought of him suffering was heartbreaking. But throughout his treatment, we were both shown compassion and kindness by every member of the perioperative team, as well as other departments that played a role in his care, including EMS, the ED, Radiology, Lab, CCU, 6th Floor, Anesthesia, and Dietary. I am sure there are many I have left unmentioned, but every one of them made an incredible impact.

Additionally, my mother, who suffered a broken hip and shoulder after a fall on Thanksgiving, was also treated by our dedicated perioperative team. Once again, I found comfort and peace knowing my loved one was in such skilled hands. The care she received was exceptional, and even after her surgery, the perioperative team continued to show concern for her recovery, as well as my husband’s. The ongoing text messages and calls, full of genuine care and support, were a reminder that our family was not just a case number—they were invested in our well-being.

The perioperative services team, including the sterile processing staff, plays such a critical role in ensuring safe, high-quality care for every patient, though their efforts are often behind the scenes. These team members work tirelessly to ensure that all surgical instruments are properly sterilized and prepared, contributing to the safety and success of every procedure. They are the unsung heroes, ensuring that everything is in place so the clinical team can perform with precision and confidence. Their commitment to safety and excellence is a crucial part of what makes Oconee Memorial so special.

The thoughtful words and actions of the perioperative team have uplifted me in ways that words cannot express. Their unwavering support has meant the world to me, and I will forever be grateful for the love and care they have shown my family. Their kindness has become a true support system during one of the most difficult times of our lives. I am proud to work at Oconee Memorial and even prouder to know that this hospital is home to such a remarkable team.

After 16 years of service here, I can say without hesitation that Oconee Memorial has made incredible strides in patient care and experience. This award would be a fitting recognition for the outstanding care provided by our small rural hospital, which is undoubtedly one of the best in the system.

I am honored to nominate the perioperative services team, including sterile processing, for the DAISY Team Award for their compassionate, skilled, and unwavering support of my family through this challenging year.