03/18/2026
Two people. Two awards. One amazing Emergency Department team. this is exactly why St. Joe's is where you want to be when it matters most.
Congratulations Erica (Coburn) Brit, CNA, Emergency Department, our first 2026 recipient of the Sunshine Award at St. Joseph Healthcare.
The Sunshine Award recognizes Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) who brighten the days of their patients, families, and co-workers. Honorees are selected based on demonstration of the St. Joseph Hospital Values of Compassion, Integrity, Collaboration, and Excellence.
Erica was nominated by Jackie Soohey, Assistant Nurse Manager, Emergency Department, who shared: “There was a pregnant patient in our department in extremely early labor who did not speak English fluently and was very scared. During the sensitive examinations and painful contractions, tech Erica stayed by their side—holding their hand, helping provide privacy, and keeping the patient’s dignity and comfort at the forefront.
In an emergency, we can sometimes forget that the person in front of us is frightened and may not fully understand what is happening, especially if they do not speak the same language. Erica helped bridge that gap by staying patient-centered and focused. Despite everything happening medically, what the patient ultimately needed most in that moment was comfort.
It takes experience and skill to recognize those needs, not just the medical ones. We are lucky to have Erica in our department, and so is the community.“
Congratulations Erica! If you'd like to nominate a St. Joe's nurse for The Sunshine Award, fill out a nomination form in person, by mail, or online by visiting:
https://pulse.ly/gwy7ajgq6p
