Karen Hart, RN, receives Harrison Humanitarian Award

Published 9:10 pm Monday, January 22, 2018

By Staff Reports

MOULTRIE, Ga. —  Colquitt Regional Medical Foundation named Karen G. Hart, RN, CMSRN, as the recipient of the 2017 Walter E. Harrison, Jr. Humanitarian Award. Hart was presented with the award at the Foundation’s annual Love Light Ceremony in December.

The Walter E. Harrison, Jr. Humanitarian Award was established by the Colquitt Regional Medical Foundation to annually recognize an individual health care worker who demonstrates a commitment to compassionate health care service and community outreach. This award was first given after the death of Dr. Harrison in December of 2010.

“Dr. Harrison believed in helping those in need,” said a press release from the hospital. “He practiced the belief both at home and in medical missions abroad.

“With traits closely resembling Dr. Harrison, Hart is a well-deserving recipient of this award,” the press release said.

In comments made by CEO Jim Matney, Hart was commended for her love for people, regardless of their affiliation with the hospital. Community outreach was the guiding principle of Harrison’s medical career, and Hart displays similar qualities.

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“Not only is healthcare her passion, but she is community-minded,” Matney said. “This year’s recipient has been described as a true patient advocate who consistently goes above and beyond to ensure her patients receive exceptional care. Hart is a role model to other healthcare professionals.”

“I’m just honored to be chosen. I feel so undeserving,” Hart said. “Dr. Harrison left a legacy that will last forever. He was a mentor as a Christian, father, a husband, a physician, a friend, and even a patient. He touched the hearts of so many people, and this award is something that will carry forward from generation to generation.

“Knowledge is a wonderful thing, but a servant’s heart is an integral part of the health care field,” Hart said.

Previous recipients of the Walter E. Harrison Humanitarian award include Dr. Seth Berl, Denise Linnenkohl, RN, Dr. Patricia Lee June, Dr. D.W. Adcock, and Barbara James, RN.