While dealing with a very animated and physically resistant patient, Dr. Holmes demonstrated patience and professionalism by comforting the distressed patient before delivering excellent care. He takes special care of his patients and their families, ensuring they have all their questions answered. He’s more than a doctor; he is a compassionate caregiver that goes above and beyond with patient care.
Award Type: Spirit of Service
Janell Miller – Employee of the Month – July 2022
When Janell’s patient, a former firefighter, couldn’t return to the profession he loved due to a severe injury, Janell went into action. She contacted his fire chief and developed a plan to utilize her patient’s charisma and public relations skills as a firefighter to provide safety awareness and public education for the community. Janell’s thoughtful gesture motivated her patient to find a new purpose, improving his life and the lives of those he’ll educate in the future.
Macy McMahan, APRN – Advanced Practice Professional of the Quarter – June 2022
Macy is one of the finest in our entire system, bringing kindness and empathy to all of her patient interactions with a broad depth of knowledge. Macy embodies all UMC values in her interactions with providers, staff, and patients. She is compassionate, dedicated, super intelligent, an avid learner, and always goes above and beyond to ensure patients are well cared for.
Gabriel Neves, MD – House Staff of the Month – June 2022
Dr. Neves provided an excellent explanation of my husband’s condition. He explained the “why” behind his choices and described how best to address my husband’s needs. He has a calm demeanor and a great approach to explaining medical terms and diagnoses in ways that are easy to understand. Dr. Neves even requested that my husband repeat the information back to him to ensure everyone was on the same page, and I found this request helpful. Thank you!
Justin Tidwell, MD – Attending of the Month – June 2022
Dr. Tidwell was in the emergency department for a meeting while a patient was brought in from EMS. When the room wasn’t ready, Dr. Tidwell took the initiative to prepare the room, making sure EMS could get the patient situated quickly. Dr. Tidwell lives and breathes the pillars of UMC. His work inspires patients and the people following in his footsteps. He treats everyone with respect and kindness and truly makes a difference in the ER with patients and coworkers. Our team is fortunate to work with him!
Alyssa Ruiz – Employee of the Month – June 2022
One evening a baby arrived in critical condition with her distressed family. Due to NICU policy, the family’s other young child was not allowed to enter the treatment area. Alyssa volunteered to stay after her 12-hour shift to watch the child. Alyssa found a television show in the child’s language to try and make the experience a little more comfortable. Alyssa’s service exemplifies that Service is Our Passion!
Anas Hamdi – House Staff of the Month – May 2022
Dr. Hamdi brings many excellent qualities to the operating room that help make patient care easier and safer. His communication skills are great. When it comes to sharp safety, he does his part by teaching residents and medical students how to be safe. Dr. Hamdi is very kind to staff and helps make a great work environment. Thank you for all you do, Dr. Hamdi!
Kanak Das – Attending of the Month – May 2022
Dr. Das recently took on a complicated case late in the day. His attitude was so kind, caring, and professional. He patiently and thoroughly explained the procedure to the nursing staff and to the patient’s family, which greatly calmed them. They were deeply grateful to have him on board to care for their family member. Thank you, Dr. Das!
Christina Montanez – Employee of the Month – May 2022
Christina is such a loving and compassionate nurse. A patient was very anxious about discharge and maintaining home care, so Christina took the time to get to know her and ease her anxiety. She brought the patient a new pet bed for her dog and several goodies to make her transition home easier. The patient was so overcome with emotion and gratitude. Thank you, Christina, for always reminding us that service is our passion!
Madison McMenemy – House Staff of the Month – April 2022
During a follow-up visit, a patient bragged about Dr. McMenemy’s wonderful bedside manners. The patient expressed their gratitude for receiving such great care from Dr. McMenemy. Thank you so much for being an amazing physician and providing outstanding care for our patients!
Milos Buhavac – Attending of the Month – April 2022
Dr. Buhavac is a gifted doctor! He provided amazing care to my brother and was invested in his journey during every twist and turn. Numerous nurses advocated for him by stating that he is the best they have ever seen, and we couldn’t agree more!
Grace Stimpson – Employee of the Month – April 2022
A homeless veteran that had been at UMC passed away and he didn’t have any family. Grace stepped up and arranged a proper burial at the Veteran’s Cemetery in Abilene. Thanks to Grace, his funeral was attended by people from the VFW, American Legion, and Dyess Air Force Base so he would not have to be buried alone. Thank you, Grace, for going above and beyond!