Texas County Memorial Hospital recently announced Hayden Burns, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) in its medical-surgical department, as the 2026 Sunflower Award recipient.
The Sunflower Award is presented bi-annually to recognize certified nursing assistants, emergency department technicians and surgical technicians who demonstrate outstanding service and compassion while exemplifying TCMH’s mission of excellence in a non-nursing role.
The following TCMH staff members were nominated for the 2026 Sunflower Award winter ceremony, and each was honored with special recognition:
Christian Neal, medical-surgical CNA; Jennifer Hack, medical-surgical CNA; Gracelynn Richardson, medical-surgical CNA; Hayden Burns, medical-surgical CNA; Courtney Traw, emergency department technician; Maddison Williams, emergency department technician; Ben Steelman, emergency department technician and CNA; Haley Long, medical-surgical GN; and Kassie Sharp, medical-surgical CNA.
“All of our nominees are fantastic non-nursing staff members who truly shine as role models in our caregiving community,” Courtney Owens, TCMH chief nursing officer, said. “The Sunflower Award is the highest form of recognition for a non-nursing role at TCMH.”
From among the nominees, Burns, of Houston, was selected as this year’s Sunflower Award recipient. He has been employed at TCMH since November 2024.
Bill Bridges, TCMH chief executive officer, presented the award to Burns.
“I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who took the time to submit nominations and acknowledge the remarkable contributions of our dedicated CNAs and skilled emergency room technicians at TCMH.” Bridges said. “Their commitment and tireless efforts play a vital role in elevating the exceptional care we strive to provide to every patient who walks through our doors.”
Burns received the Sunflower Award after being nominated three times — first by Janet, a TCMH patient; then by Sheri, another TCMH patient; and finally by Jan, the mother of a TCMH patient.
In her nomination, Janet praised Burns for his compassionate care and kindness.
“I enjoyed my stay at TCMH,” Janet said. “Hayden has been a pleasure as my care provider. He is bright, witty and attentive to my needs, always friendly and conscientious in addressing them. He consistently smiles, listens and ensures that everything I require is taken care of. Thank you, Hayden; I needed tender-loving care, and you provided it wonderfully.”
In a second nomination, Sheri applauded Burns for his exceptional care and positive attitude.
“Hayden was always cheerful and very pleasant. I could tell he really enjoyed his job, and he wanted to ensure his patients had everything they needed. One time, I asked for ice, and Hayden, the only CNA on the floor, was very busy; he forgot to bring it to me. However, he later came by and apologized that he failed to get my ice. I reassured him that he didn’t owe me an apology since I could see he was worn out. Someone else took care of me. After all he had on his plate, he still remembered my request for ice. I wish all CNAs were as caring and observant as he was.”
In the third nomination, Jan commended Burns for his care and compassion toward her mother.
“My mother had a three-night stay at TCMH, and Hayden provided exceptional care for her,” Jan said. “His personality and the way he interacted with my mom made her feel comfortable and safe. He was so kind and caring toward her.”
“Hayden’s unwavering dedication and genuine kindness as a CNA truly shine through in the compassionate care he provides to our patients,” Shelly Hawkins, TCMH medical-surgical and ICU director, said. “His contributions to our medical-surgical department make an extraordinary impact on both patients and staff, and he wholeheartedly deserves this award.”
Burns received a certificate of recognition, a sunflower pin and a bouquet of fresh sunflowers.
Nominations for the Sunflower Award are accepted year-round from patients, family members and colleagues. Award recipients are selected and recognized bi-annually.