Mike Skobba, a registered nurse who works weekend nights on St. Mary’s Hospital’s Intensive Care Unit, has received St. Mary’s systemwide DAISY Award for Nursing Excellence.

Skobba received two nominations, one from the loved one of a patient and another from a colleague.

“In the worst time of my family’s life, Mike remained a steadfast and constant source of comfort, knowledge and professional courtesy,” the patient’s loved one wrote. “The way he cared for my grandma touched my heart in more ways than I can write. He provided our family with such peace during a very difficult time.”

Colleague Kerry King had similar praise. “Mike is a pleasure to work with, each and every shift,” King wrote. “He goes above and beyond to help, maintains a professional yet jovial spirit, and always keeps the needs and interests of the patient above all.”

“We are extremely proud of Mike and all of our DAISY Award recipients,” said Ann Gomes, St. Mary’s director of orthopedics and DAISY Award Committee coordinator. “This award demonstrates the vital role nurses play not only as care providers at the bedside, but with families and colleagues as well. Congratulations, Mike!”

Skobba joined St. Mary’s Home Health Care/Hospice Services in July 2019 and provided care at St. Mary’s Hospice House until transferring into his current role at St. Mary’s Hospital about a year ago. Mike lives in Athens with his wife, Kim, and is the proud dad to their four boys. Outside of work, he enjoys long road trips to Minnesota, mountain biking, and swimming in Lake Superior.