Excellence in Care – Whatever It Takes Winners for Sept. 2025

Life Care Centers of America's Whatever It Takes Champions program honors associates who go beyond their job descriptions in serving residents, families, and fellow associates. Here are four more inspiring stories of heartfelt service and unwavering commitment to care. 

Most of the winning nominations below come from patients and their families, showing the personal, lasting impact that quality care can achieve. Thanks to these associates for doing Whatever It Takes for our residents, patients, and families!

Ann Burt, Accounts Receivable Clerk at Life Care Center of East Ridge

Ann is always on the lookout for anyone in need at her facility. Recently, a storm briefly knocked out the facility’s power, which turned the electronic sliding doors at the front entrance into manual sliding doors. When a visitor who required a motorized wheelchair needed to leave the facility, Ann dropped what she was doing and hurried to their aid.

Umbrella in hand, Ann helped the visitor exit the facility and reach their vehicle without getting soaked in the rain.

Tonya Szymanski, Licensed Practical Nurse at Life Care Center of Sparta

Tonya gives the family members of her patients and residents confidence and peace of mind. Here is what the husband of a recent patient had to say about Tonya’s attentiveness and compassion:

“My wife, Judith, was a guest at Life Care Center of Sparta, Tennessee. As a diabetic, her blood sugar has a tendency to drop low around midnight most nights. With nighttime nurse Tonya watching over her during the night, I felt comfortable leaving every evening knowing my wife’s blood sugar would be well monitored and, if needed, regulated. I could often tell every morning, via my wife's Libra III's reading, that Tonya had given my wife a snack to bring up the sugar level when needed. My heartfelt thanks go out to Tonya!”

Mary Matney, Certified Nursing Assistant at Life Care Center of Palm Bay

This is another nomination from a short-term rehab patient. Read in the patient’s own words how Mary delivered the care, support, and reassurance the patient needed to feel confident and achieve a successful recovery:

“I would have never gotten this far if it wasn't for the care I received from Mary Matney. The severe pain was always there, but Mary made a difficult time much easier for me. I want to thank Mary for her exceptional care, her positive attitude, and helpfulness. She made a big difference in my experience being there because she loved her job and patients.

“The care I received from Mary was outstanding. Mary, I want to personally thank you for going above and beyond to make your patients feel comfortable and respected. I am forever grateful to you.”

Amy Winkler, Certified Nursing Assistant at Life Care Center of Hixson

Amy helped a nervous short-term therapy patient feel welcome, comfortable, and ready to pursue their recovery. Here is what that patient had to say about Amy and her unforgettable care:

“I came to Life Care of Hixson on Labor Day, being transferred here from a three-week stay in Erlanger Hospital in Chattanooga. Hixson being about three hours from home in Alabama, I was scared and nervous about not knowing anyone or anything about a rehab facility.

“The first person I met upon my arrival was Amy Winkler. After spending a few minutes with her and her kindness and professionalism in answering my questions, my fears began to dwindle, and her continuation checking on me my fears and concerns even more.”