Kalie Heaton, a registered nurse who provides care as part of St. Mary’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) team, has received St. Mary’s systemwide DAISY Award for Nursing Excellence 

Heaton is a resident of Lavonia who joined St. Mary’s in May of 2023. She was nominated by one of her ICU patients. “Kalie is a true professional,” the patient wrote. “She makes sure every detail in your care is looked after. She is awesome!” 

The patient went on to praise her for more than her professionalism.

“She made me feel she was interested in my situation,” the patient wrote. “Kalie made the time for small talk that helped alleviate the feeling of being isolated. Whenever I rang, she was in my room in seconds. Sometimes it’s the little things someone does for you that make the difference. Kalie has the ability to do just that.” 

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