AdventHealth Redmond has recognized Donald Abernathy as the recipient of the Sunflower Award for the first quarter of 2026.

The award honors non-nursing team members who demonstrate extraordinary service, compassion, and dedication to patients, visitors, and fellow team members. The Sunflower Award complements the DAISY Award for nurses and recognizes employees who bring light, warmth, and hope to those they serve.

Abernathy serves as a concierge at AdventHealth Redmond’s outpatient entrance in Rome and was nominated by both a patient and fellow team members for his kindness and commitment to helping others.

One patient said Abernathy went above and beyond during a pre-operative appointment after she realized she had left her medications in a vehicle parked far from the hospital entrance. Instead of allowing the patient to make the painful walk back to her car, Abernathy volunteered to retrieve the medications for her.

The patient said Abernathy may not have known she suffers from severe back problems, but his act of kindness was a tremendous help and blessing.

Co-workers also praised Abernathy for his servant-hearted attitude and willingness to assist patients and visitors. As one of the first people many encounter when arriving at the hospital, Abernathy is known for greeting visitors with a smile and helping them feel welcomed and cared for.

Teresa Miller, Consumer Access Manager, said Abernathy consistently demonstrates the compassion, kindness, and dedication that define AdventHealth’s mission, adding that one phrase often heard from him is, “I’ll take care of it.”

As the Sunflower Award recipient, Abernathy received a commemorative certificate, Sunflower Award pin, keepsake trophy, flowers, and recognition from hospital leaders and colleagues.