USA Health team members honored for exceptional patient care during A Night Honoring Healers

By Casandra Andrews
candrews@health.southalabama.edu

Nearly 100 USA Health team members — from physicians, nurses and therapists to nutritionists and environmental services — were recognized for their compassionate and often life-changing care during A Night Honoring Healers, presented by the USA Foundation on Nov. 16 at the Mobile Convention Center.

More than 500 guests gathered to see the remarkable stories through video presentations of USA Health care teams in action as they provided exceptional care to patients. During the program, each designated healer received a medal and was recognized for the achievement.

“We could not do what we do without thousands of dedicated employees supporting our mission,” said John V. Marymont, M.D., M.B.A., dean of the Whiddon College of Medicine and vice president for medical affairs. “We are privileged to have some of the most highly trained and talented people that I’ve ever had the pleasure to call my colleagues working here.”

Beginning in 2017, USA Health began formally recognizing its healthcare heroes, including those in the community who contribute to patient care, during an annual ceremony. This year, two patient stories were shared.

The first video presentation detailed the struggles of Joseph Cabaniss, a Parkinson’s patient who underwent a procedure known as deep brain stimulation to significantly slow the progression of tremors in his hand. 

The second patient, Ashley Emmons, was just 31 when she discovered a lump on her chest. After seeking care at USA Health, she was diagnosed with stage 2 breast cancer. Along with surgery, she received chemotherapy and radiation at the Mitchell Cancer Institute before being declared cancer free.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Emmons told the healers through tears Thursday evening. “I will forever be grateful. I can’t thank you enough for saving my life.”

USA President Jo Bonner announced a special award at the event, recognizing USA Board of Trustees Chair Arlene Mitchell, who with her late husband, Mayer Mitchell, helped bring academic cancer care to Mobile through the Mitchell Cancer Institute.

“The devotion of our healthcare team to our patients has never shined more brightly,” said Owen Bailey, MSHA, FACHE, USA Health chief executive officer and senior associate vice president for medical affairs. “And along with caring for patients, these incredible people also teach the next generation of physicians, researchers, and other healthcare providers.”