MaineHealth Lincoln Hospital recently recognized the outstanding achievements and compassionate dedication of its nursing staff and support team during special ceremonies held during MaineHealth’s Care Team Appreciation week. These awards highlight the critical role caregivers play in delivering high-quality, patient-centered care to the community.

On May 8, Med-Surg nurse Deborah Monck, RN, was awarded the Nursing Excellence Award as a recognition for her tireless efforts to improve patient care and staff development; her active involvement in hospital and regional initiatives including the Nurse Practice Council, Ethics Committee and iPACE team; and her continuous advocacy for patients and their families.

Monck was praised by colleagues for being a self-motivated individual who “does not sit on the sidelines and wait for opportunities — she creates them.”

On May 9, MaineHealth Lincoln Hospital celebrated two additional care team members for their exceptional contributions to patient care.

Julia Couture, RN, received the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, an internationally recognized honor celebrating nurses who provide skillful and compassionate care. Couture was nominated for her unwavering support of patients and their families during the most vulnerable moments of care.

One nomination noted, “Julia was with my godmother throughout her hospital stay; she was a fantastic advocate for her when family wasn’t present. We will never forget her kindness and empathy.”

Madonna Smith, a dedicated member of the nursing support team, was honored with the Sunshine Award, which recognizes those who demonstrate outstanding dedication and compassion in support roles.

“During my short stay, Madonna took me to my car in a wheelchair and then proceeded to scrape the snow off my vehicle so that I could drive safely home,” a patient recalled in their

nomination. “This is truly above and beyond. I have been in medicine for 63 years and I have never experienced such patient care.”

These awards reflect MaineHealth Lincoln Hospital’s appreciation for the nurses and care team members who ensure patients and families not only receive exceptional care, but also feel seen, heard and supported.