OSF HealthCare Saint Clare Medical Center is pleased to recognize the 2025 Sunflower Award Winner, Sarah DeWaele, CMA. Sarah is a certified medical assistant for OSF Wound Care at OSF Saint Clare. Sarah was nominated for the Sunflower Award for her outstanding compassion, kindness and supportive patient care.
The nomination comes from the daughter of a patient who was nervous about her first visit to OSF Wound Care. “The first person we saw was smiling Sarah,” the nomination reads. “She made mom so comfortable and reassured us that Dr. Harp (who is wonderful) would certainly help.”
The patient had to return every two weeks after her initial visit, and each time they were greeted by Sarah’s warmth and positivity. “She’s always there to assist us with whatever we needed,” the nominator shared. “Many times she told us she loved her job, and it shows in how she treats all of us.”
Sarah’s dedication extended beyond scheduled appointments. When a concern arose between visits, she helped them secure a quick appointment and offered the reassurance they needed. “She and Dr. Harp are angels. There aren’t many out there like them. Thank you, Sarah.”
“Outstanding nursing care is recognized through the DAISY Award, but there are Mission Partners, like Sarah, who are not nurses, providing extraordinary care. It’s awesome to be able to recognize her with the Sunflower award, she is truly deserving of the honor,” said Scott Hartman, vice president of Operations and Special Projects at OSF Saint Clare.
Recipients for the Sunflower Award are nominated by patients, the families of patients or employees throughout the past year. From the nominations, a committee at OSF Saint Clare selects one recipient annually. The Sunflower Award winner receives an award pin, certificate, sculpture, embroidered tote bag, bouquet of sunflowers and a banner displayed in their department for the year.
To recognize a non-nursing employee who has provided exceptional service, submit a nomination to honor their dedication at osfhealthcarefoundation.org/sunflower-award.