Angie Smithson, a physical therapist who works in Conway Regional’s Home Health Department, has been awarded the Be Exceptional Everyday (BEE) for the compassion that she shows for her patients. Smithson has worked at Conway Regional since May of 1988 and was once director of physical therapy services for the health system.

Smithson was nominated for the BEE award based on the compassionate care she provided for a home health patient and his son. Smithson drove to Damascus and used her personal trailer to retrieve an electronic wheelchair for the patient to enable him to move around his home and keep appointments. After performing her physical therapy duties, Smithson also trimmed the patient’s hair and beard as well as the hair of his son with special needs.

The nurse who nominated Smithson for the award stated, “The patient told me that he had never had anyone care so much about his needs and his son’s needs.” Of Smithson, the nomination added, “She truly invests in her patients’ wellbeing and helps in any way she can. Not just with physical mobility, but with their emotional support and sometimes even helps raise funds for their financial needs.”

Conway Regional provides at-home nursing care and therapy services for a 12-county area surrounding Faulkner County.

The award is given by the Conway Regional Patient Care Governing Congress based on an anonymous selection process. The BEE Award honors non-nursing healthcare team members who provide exceptional service. Winners receive a hand-carved stone statue called the "Healer's Touch," symbolizing compassion and caring, a reserved parking spot, and a pan of fresh cinnamon rolls.  Nurses are nominated for the DAISY Award for exemplary patient care.