Patient and Family Choice Award

September 18, 2025

Elevator encounter highlights case manager Sharon Johnston’s compassion and problem-solving skills

“Somebody had a problem, and I knew I could fix it,” said Johnston, who received a 2025 Patient and Family Choice Award.

By Leigh MacMillan
September 11, 2025

It’s all about connection for Larry Wingo, who knows that serving patients at their lowest points is a critical part of making health care personal

Recognized by patients and colleagues, Wingo’s selfless attitude and commitment to making those he serves feel heard earned him a Patient and Family Choice Award.

By Evan Dorian
August 26, 2025

Pup-tacular duo Kaylor Glassman and Velour fetch top honors

“…the work that Kaylor and Velour are doing together makes a difference for children and families facing tough medical challenges.”

By Christina Echegaray
July 29, 2025

Compassion in action: Nurse Vicki Caldwell finds joy in serving others in the emergency department at Vanderbilt Tullahoma-Harton Hospital

Recognized for her calm, caring approach, Caldwell credits her team and her passion for helping others during life’s toughest moments.

By Bill Snyder
September 19, 2024

As a champion for countless children diagnosed with cancer, Debra Friedman has received many rewards and recognitions for her work. A recent award, however, might be among the most special.

Selected by patients and families, Friedman is the winner of a 2024 Patient and Family Choice Award.

By Christina Echegaray
July 30, 2024

Friend’s cancer diagnosis inspired Tracey DeWire to change career path

Nominated by four patients, DeWire is a recipient of a 2024 Patient and Family Choice Award.

By Tom Wilemon
July 22, 2024

Nursing may be a later in life career for Christin Inman, RN, but the VWCH Patient and Family Choice Award winner is right on time

“I take my time with every single patient and want to hear what brought them here and what they want to take out of their experience.”
By Danny Bonvissuto
July 10, 2024

As the first face people encounter at Vanderbilt Behavioral Health, Selene Lanier-Henderson promises ‘kindness, a friendly face and a smile.’

“We repeatedly saw her show that same sort of grace and love to everyone who crossed her path. She was a blessing during this very difficult time!”
By Bill Snyder
June 18, 2024

A patient wanted to eat a juicy Bonnaroo burger, but he had to learn to swallow food again after neck cancer. Julie Judkins-Giffin helped him get there.

“She taught me exercises that strengthened my throat muscles, which enabled me to eat again and gave me my life back.”
By Jessica Pasley
June 5, 2024

A seriously ill patient was scared she wouldn’t survive the night — until she met nurse Inga-Liese Konynenbelt in the VUMC Emergency Department

“Inga made me feel that I was going to be OK. I am eternally grateful for her.”
By Nancy Humphrey
June 16, 2023

Some days Bill Moore wondered if he was actually helping the children in his care. Then patients’ families gave him a Patient and Family Choice Award.

He started with a career in marketing, moved to the music business, and has found his calling at Monroe Carell
By Christina Echegaray
June 1, 2023

Brenda Campbell lifts patients’ spirits with smiles, humor and genuine love

“I love people, I love helping, and I love what I do. Some of the patients who come don’t want to live. Some of them don’t have any support. I let them know, ‘Somebody loves you. You’re loved. You’re worthy of being loved. You’re so special and valued."
By Danny Bonvissuto
May 30, 2023

Catherine Stober plays health care quarterback for generations of families

"Being a good doctor is meeting people where they are emotionally, physically, intellectually and helping your patient navigate this really complicated health care system that we have. I tell my patients I’m their quarterback and I’m here to help them figure out what the next step should be.”
By Nancy Humphrey
1 2