In October, the Nebraska Hospital Association honors the state’s most caring and dedicated hospital and health system employees. They were proud to recognize Dr. Ruthri Goodwin from Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals (madonna.org). Dr. Goodwin is the Medical Director for Madonna’s Cancer Rehabilitation Program and is among “The Caring Kind Award” 2024 recipients.

Accolades co-workers use to describe Goodwin include: patient advocate, servant leader and the very definition of a caring and kind human being.

For two years Goodwin has coordinated care plans for patients living with cancer and visited with them daily about their recovery journey, earning both the trust of her patients and the respect of her co-workers. One nominator writes, “Patients trust her with their care because she advocates for them every day and has such a positive aura that is contagious.” Another nominator adds, “Dr. Goodwin exemplifies teamwork. She is a standout leader and is the glue for her therapy team … Dr. Goodwin comes to work with a smile on her face every day. She shares her knowledge and kindness with everyone she meets.” A third nominator writes, “I cannot think of anyone more deserving than Dr. Ruthri Goodwin for ‘The Caring Kind’ award.”

Goodwin has always aspired to be a caring, compassionate and kind doctor. And while she’s always felt a connection to the patients she serves, she says being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022 has only strengthened that connection and commitment to those she serves during their rehabilitation journey.

The NHA’s The Caring Kind Award, now in its 45th year, has honored nearly 2,900 of Nebraska’s most caring and dedicated hospital and health system employees. Congrats, Dr. Goodwin!

Madonna Rehabilitation Hospitals are Catholic, non-profit hospitals that provide physical medicine and rehabilitation services to children and adults nationwide. Learn more at madonna.org.