Media release from AdventHealth Georgia:
AdventHealth Redmond is proud to recognize Donald Abernathy as the recipient of the Sunflower Award for the first quarter of 2026. The award honors non-nursing team members who exemplify AdventHealth’s mission through extraordinary service, compassion and dedication to patients, visitors and fellow team members.
The Sunflower Award serves as a complement to the DAISY Award for nurses and recognizes individuals who bring light, warmth and hope to those they serve. Inspired by the sunflower’s symbolism of faith, resilience and unwavering positivity, the award celebrates team members who go above and beyond in Extending the Healing Ministry of Christ.
Abernathy, who serves as a concierge at AdventHealth Redmond’s outpatient entrance, was nominated by both a patient and fellow team members for his exceptional kindness and commitment to helping others.
One patient shared how Abernathy stepped in during a pre-operative appointment after she realized she had left her medications in her vehicle parked far from the hospital entrance. Rather than having the patient wait for transportation or make the painful walk herself, Abernathy volunteered to retrieve the medications on her behalf.
“What Donald may not have known was that I have severe back problems,” the patient wrote in her nomination. “It would have been very painful for me to walk all the way back to my car. He was a huge blessing and truly went above and beyond to help me.”
Co-workers also praised Abernathy for his servant-hearted attitude and willingness to assist patients and visitors in any way possible. As one of the first faces many people encounter when arriving at the hospital, he is known for greeting everyone with a smile, offering assistance without hesitation and ensuring patients feel welcomed and cared for from the moment they arrive.
“Donald consistently demonstrates the compassion, kindness and dedication that define AdventHealth’s mission,” said Teresa Miller, Consumer Access Manager. “Whether he is helping a patient navigate their visit, assisting a family member or supporting fellow team members, a phrase we constantly hear from Donald is ‘I’ll take care of it!’.” We are grateful for the difference he makes each day.”
As a Sunflower Award recipient, Abernathy received a commemorative certificate, Sunflower Award pin, keepsake trophy, flowers and recognition from hospital leaders and colleagues.
Through his commitment to serving others with compassion and humility, Donald Abernathy exemplifies what it means to extend the healing ministry of Christ and make a lasting impact on those around him.
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