Debra Ashby, RN has been named 2014 Employee of the Year for Brownwood Regional Medical Center. The recognition is the highest honor a hospital employee may receive.

Employees are nominated for the award by their colleagues based on their commitment to patient care, their professionalism and their contributions on the job. Debra Ashby, RN was chosen from among 550 employees for the recognition.

“Each employee plays an important role in delivering quality care and creating the best possible experience for our patients,” said Chip Camp, Chief Executive Officer. “Debra Ashby, RN exemplifies the best of who we are as healthcare providers through her dedication to our patients and the hospital. It is a pleasure to recognize Debra Ashby, RN and celebrate the hard work of all our employees.”

Debra Ashby, RN has worked at Brownwood Regional Medical Center since February 1998 working as a night nurse, soon becoming a night Charge Nurse and in 2003 she became House Supervisor. She was voted Employee of the Month in November 2013 and from a list of 11 other Employees of the Month was voted Employee of the Year. “Having an employee like Debra is the epitome of the words, ‘nursing comes from the heart.’ This recognition is a very small token of thanks.  BRMC is very fortunate to have her on our care team.” said Alicia Kayga, BRMC Chief Nursing Officer.

Ashby became interested in nursing when her mother had cancer and was placed on hospice. She experienced the difference a nurse can make first hand and knew she wanted to be a part of that special calling. Ashby said, “The most rewarding part of nursing is making a difference in people’s lives. That includes the actual nursing care or it may even be as simple as a smile or holding someone’s hand. Often it’s just acknowledging that there is someone who does care.  Sometimes it’s a patient, a family member or a friend of the patient that is in need. When someone is sick it affects so much of a person’s life and that may include their family and their needs which may be many and I just want to a part of helping in any way possible.”

BRMC officials thanked Ashby for her compassion and for the care she has provided to so many friends and families.

Pictured above, left to right, are Alicia Kayga, Chief Nursing Officer, center, Debra Ashby, RN and Chip Camp, Chief Executive Officer