SALISBURY — Ariel Mason, patient care tech in the Emergency Department, has been selected as TidalHealth Peninsula Regional’s January 2024 Sunshine Award recipient for her professionalism, kindness and compassion.

A coworker who nominated her wrote: "We had a patient being treated recently in the Emergency Department (ED) that was visibly soiled with bedbugs and had clothes that were worn and tattering.

"Ariel not only collected donations from the ED team in her area, but she also stopped in Goodwill to purchase new clothes, socks, and food for the patient.

"She then assisted the patient with a shower and prepared them for discharge from the ED by taxi.

"Weak at the time and walking with a cane, the patient was not able to successfully get around on their own, so Ariel took the initiative to follow patient home and helped them get situated, ensuring they were safe and comfortable."

Mason was honored in a ceremony before her coworkers and presented with fresh flowers, a pin and a certificate recognizing her exceptional devotion to team and patient care.