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Carson Tahoe Health
Carson Tahoe Health is proud to honor Kiley Paterson of our Medical/Oncology team with the prestigious Sunflower Award. Her dedication to providing warmth, patience, and genuine human connection has made a lasting impact on those she serves, particularly one 93-year-old patient hospitalized with double pneumonia and early signs of sepsis.
A Compassionate Presence During a Difficult Hospital Stay
While the medical care was excellent, the family shared that what made a profound difference was Kiley’s personal presence. From the outset, Kiley distinguished herself with positivity and attentiveness. Most importantly, she demonstrated extraordinary patience. She never rushed. She remained present. She listened carefully and responded thoughtfully to her patient’s needs.
“These may seem like small things,” wrote the patient’s son, Dr. Jeffrey E. Hansen, a clinical psychologist with more than twenty years of hospital experience. “They are not. They communicate dignity, safety, and genuine care.”
Because of Kiley’s presence, the patient felt nurtured, respected, and safe during a frightening and vulnerable time. Her compassion contributed meaningfully to comfort and recovery.
The Sunflower Award recognizes healthcare professionals who go above and beyond in providing compassionate, patient-centered care. Kiley embodies this recognition and the foundation of Carson Tahoe Health’s people-first culture. We know healing happens not only through treatment, but through human connection — through eye contact, patience, dignity, and being fully present.
Congratulations, Kiley, on this well-deserved recognition. Thank you for representing the very best of who we are.
