Marlin Named Hospital Hero at Annual Iowa Hospital Association Meeting

West Burlington, Iowa, October 17, 2024 – Deborah Marlin, RN, Case Manager, Chaplain, Southeast Iowa Regional Home Health & Hospice, Fort Madison was honored as one of only eleven hospital employees across Iowa as a Hospital Hero at the Iowa Hospital Association Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 9, 2024.

The Iowa Hospital Association's Hospital Heroes Awards celebrate employees who have acted courageously in a crisis or have selflessly served their hospitals and communities throughout their careers. The awards recognize employees who exemplify the passion and purpose of their hospitals’ missions.

Deborah Marlin’s nomination explained how she is more than a hospice nurse; she's a beacon of compassion and joy for patients and their families during their most challenging times. Drawing from her experience with grief, Deb pursued Grief Counseling Certification, enhancing her ability to guide others through the healing process. She leads a Grief Support group at both hospital campuses. But her care extends far beyond the ordinary. Deb goes the extra mile to connect with her patients, discovering what brings them happiness and ensuring their final days are filled with comfort and joy. From fixing a broken sewing machine for a patient to throwing a Disney-themed party for a patient, Deb's actions reflect her deep empathy and commitment. She even brought a favorite cup of coffee to a patient, understanding that such small gestures can make an enormous difference. Deb's comprehensive approach to hospice care, addressing emotional and physical needs, makes her a true hero in the eyes of those she serves.

Hospital Heroes are nominated by their peers and selected by an independent committee. The Hospital Heroes Awards have been presented since 2007. In 2020, IHA recognized all Iowa hospital employees and volunteers for their efforts during the pandemic.

Southeast Iowa Regional Home Health provides continuity of care for patients in their homes who are recovering from illness or surgery, need ongoing medical care for a diagnosed condition, or are disabled or too ill to care for themselves. The Southeast Iowa Regional Hospice program provides end-of-life physical, emotional, and spiritual care to patients and families in Des Moines, Henry, Lee, Louisa, and VanBuren counties.