RICHLAND CENTER, Wis. (October 26, 2026) – The Richland Hospital and Clinics recently recognized Heather Thome, BSN, RN, with the prestigious DAISY Award, an honor celebrating nurses who provide extraordinary, compassionate care to patients and their families.

The award was presented during a heartfelt ceremony attended by colleagues, leaders, family members, and fellow nominees. The event highlighted not only Heather’s exceptional nursing care but also the remarkable dedication demonstrated every day by nurses throughout the organization.

“This year brought an incredible number of outstanding nominations,” said Ken Nelson, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at The Richland Hospital and Clinics. “Each story reflected the compassion, skill, and commitment our nurses bring to their patients every day. Heather’s nomination stood out because of the profound impact she made during one of life’s most difficult moments. She exemplifies everything the DAISY Award represents.”

Nominees recognized during this presentation included Skyla Wanless, Kaylyn Hellebrand, Darrin Buchholtz, Mary Jo Kussmaul, Amanda Williamson, Dana Falk, Paul Thao, Charlene Shaw, and Laurie Krajco. Their nominations described countless acts of kindness, clinical excellence, advocacy, and support that made meaningful differences in the lives of patients and families.

A special recognition was also given to Darrin Buchholtz, who is retiring after 10 years of nursing service with The Richland Hospital and Clinics. A multiple-time DAISY Award nominee, Buchholtz was presented with a commemorative DAISY pin in recognition of his years of compassionate care and his lasting impact on the organization.

The nomination that earned Heather the DAISY Award was submitted by hospice nurse Kari Long, who described Heather’s extraordinary care during a difficult and emotionally complex patient situation. Long wrote, “Some moments in health care remind us why nursing is more than a profession; it’s a calling. Heather demonstrated this in a profound way.” According to the nomination, Heather went beyond providing excellent clinical care by ensuring both her patient and the patient’s family felt supported, heard, and valued throughout their experience. Her compassion, empathy, and unwavering commitment helped guide the family through an especially challenging time.

“Heather’s care extended far beyond the bedside,” Nelson said. “She made it her mission to care for the whole family, not just the patient. That level of compassion is what makes nurses extraordinary and what makes Heather so deserving of this recognition.” Long concluded her nomination by writing, “Heather Thome truly embodies the heart of nursing and is profoundly deserving of the DAISY Award.”

In keeping with DAISY Award tradition, attendees concluded the celebration by sharing sweet rolls, a tribute to the nurses whose compassion and dedication leave a lasting impression on patients, families, and colleagues alike.

“The stories shared during DAISY Award presentations remind us why health care is ultimately about people caring for people,” Nelson said. “We are proud to recognize Heather and all of this year’s nominees for the extraordinary difference they make every day.”