Imagine your father living out of state and progressively showing signs of dementia. Providing proper care that meets his needs is complicated by his inability to communicate fully. You research, tour, and choose a senior living community close to you and other family members. You're feeling hopeful until move-in day. Seemingly, what could go wrong does. Dad's temper is running high, and he's yelling at everyone around. Tension among the family is ratcheting up. And then, among the flaring emotions, Dad plants himself firmly in front of the car – so you don't leave him.
Enter Sarah Riggs, Director of Health Services for The Palisades at Broadmoor Park. The above wasn't just some training exercise but an emotionally filled, raw moment for a resident and his family. Sarah approached the family and the situation with the grace and patience she's known for. In a matter of minutes, she quietly and effectively de-escalated the situation, calmed the resident, and centered the family to work together toward a unified solution. But she didn't stop there. To ensure the resident felt at ease, and team members felt confident in serving his needs, she developed a creative way for them to communicate with the resident. Today, the resident is happy, and the family has greater peace of mind.
It's no wonder Sarah Riggs is the recipient of The Daisy Award. Created by The Daisy Award Foundation, the award was established in 1999 to recognize nurses' extraordinary and compassionate work. This was the first year that MBK Senior Living participated in nominating members of its nursing staff.
"We received over 50 nominations, with multiple nominations citing stories of Sarah's impact on residents, families, and her fellow team members," said Dee Engle, Vice President of Health and Wellness for MBK Senior Living.
According to Fran Capritta, Executive Director of The Palisades, Sarah held a pivotal role in the community before becoming an MBK Team Member. After serving in the Army (as a tank mechanic, no less), Sarah completed nursing school. She worked in acute care, skilled nursing and then served as a hospice nurse – providing care and comfort to Palisades residents and families. In 2021, Sarah joined The Palisades team full-time and has made an indelible mark on many.
"Sarah is one of the most knowledgeable nurses I know," said Fran. "She has a remarkable way of explaining things to residents and families that is not overwhelming or scary."
"She's so down-to-earth and humble. While she'll appreciate knowing she's making an impact, she'll hate being in the spotlight by receiving this award," added Fran.
Narrowing down the winner was no easy feat for the MBK Daily Award Committee. Nurses across the company's 38 communities were nominated by residents, family members, management, and staff. The committee culled through 56 nominations and selected Sarah based on her extraordinary effort to help others.
"There were several other impactful stories, which is why in addition to celebrating Sarah, we are honoring all our nominees," said Dee. "We are so proud of our nurses' impact, the good work they do, and the compassionate care they continually provide."
The following individuals were recognized during the 2023 MBK Senior Living Leadership Retreat, held May 1-3, 2023 in San Diego, California.
The Daisy Award Winner – Sarah Riggs
The Daisy Award Honorable Mentions:
- Taylor Baldwin
- Eva Bowlin
- Tosha Catavu
- Regina Franklin
- Karen Frame
- Lupe Villa Guerrero
- Emily Loflin
- Kathia Mendez
- Dora Nazar
- Alysia Noriega
- Karen Silva
- Ma. Liza Spencer
- Diane Taylor
- Kobi Watkins
- Faveola York
