SALISBURY – TidalHealth recently presented the inaugural Marc McDonald Award to physical therapist (PT) Richard “Rich” Runge, a 24-year veteran at TidalHealth Peninsula Regional in Salisbury.

Runge, who was nominated by four different individuals including three nurses, was recognized for his exceptional grace, clinical skills and the high-quality care, safety and comfort he provides with each patient encounter.

Described as a pleasure to team up with, Runge works the challenging weekend shift, and is the “PT go to guy” for anything that is required of the department.

One of his nominators wrote that Runge is “patient, kind and considerate with everyone, has a heart of gold and is worth his weight in gold” to match. They closed by adding that Runge represents the best of the best at TidalHealth.

The Marc McDonald Physical Therapy Award is given in recognition and in the memory of McDonald, an outstanding lead physical therapist at TidalHealth Nanticoke in Seaford, Del.

He passed unexpectedly in 2022, but not before leaving a legacy of exceptional patient care. The award in his name recognizes a member of TidalHealth’s Physical Medical & Rehabilitation team who exhibits those same characteristics of professionalism, compassion, and commitment to a patient’s overall well-being.

Nominations are accepted from the fields of physical, occupational or speech therapy.