Katarzyna Obrycka Honored with Inaugural Hibiscus Award at UF Health Flagler Hospital

St. Augustine, Fla. (August 23, 2023) – Katarzyna Obrycka, a Patient Care Technician on UF Health Flagler Hospital’s 5^th floor, has been honored as the first-ever Hibiscus Award recipient for the care, compassion, and commitment that she provides to patients on a daily basis.

The Hibiscus Award was instituted this year to recognize non-nursing team members for their efforts in promoting the health care mission of Flagler Health+. The award is presented quarterly in months following the presentation of the DAISY Award, which is presented to a nurse who goes above and beyond in the care of their patients.

A patient nominated Katarzyna for her positive attitude and her empathetic nature.

“She gives so much more than just tech support. She is a radiant light of positivity and empathy to all she comes in contact with,” wrote the patient. “During my stay at UF Health Flagler Hospital, she gave me some much-needed encouragement about my medical situation by sharing her own personal experiences with her family. She didn't need to share those private details, but she did so to help boost me into a better psychological mindset, for which I am beyond grateful.

“The care she gave me and her other patients was over and above any expectations I could have ever anticipated. She is one of a kind, and Flagler is very fortunate to have this wonderful person on its staff.”

Katarzyna’s nomination was among 24 recognitions submitted by patients, their families, and UF Health St. Johnsteam members this quarter.

“Congratulations to Katarzyna on being named the first-ever Hibiscus Award winner at UF Health Flagler Hospital,” said Carlton DeVooght, President and CEO of Flagler Health+. “She is a wonderful example of what the Hibiscus Award represents and a well-deserved recipient of this first honor. Katarayzna’s caring nature represents what UF Health St. Johnsmeans to our patients and community.”

In recognition of this honor, Katarzyna received a crystal trophy, a Hibiscus winner’s pin, a gift basket, a $250 cash reward, assorted baked goods from Maple Street Biscuit Company, and Hibiscus popsicles from Hyppo.

“I am very surprised, and this is amazing,” said Katarzyna. “It is a team effort, though, and my team on the 5^th floor made this possible for me.”