The Lee Park Foundation announced the three Holy Name Medical Center recipients of the 2026 Lotus Award for Nursing and Clinical Care. The prestigious honor recognizes unsung frontline health care heroes who demonstrate extraordinary compassion, clinical excellence, and selfless dedication to patient care.
The awards were presented by Jai-Yoo Lee, a director of the Lee Park Foundation, during Holy Name’s National Nurses Week celebration. This year’s recipients are:
- Erin Davis, PT (Physical Therapist)
- Katarina Sadlon, RN (Registered Nurse)
- Nura Shehadeh (Patient Care Technician)
Established in memory of Dr. Jang Ho Lee—a revered healer, teacher and practitioner of Buddhist doctrine—the Lotus Award holds a unique place in health care recognition. Driven entirely by nominations from patients and families, the award is notably open to both licensed nurses and clinical care staff who frequently work away from the spotlight.
In addition to a handcrafted silver Lotus pin, each of the three winners received a $10,000 cash prize from the foundation.
“We want to lift up for all to see those many people who work so hard and give so much to others, not for the recognition, but out of their own sense of duty, professionalism, and especially human compassion,” Gaeun Kim, Lee Park Foundation president said.
The inspiration for the award stems from the final weeks of Dr. Lee’s life, during which his family was deeply moved by the profound kindness and exceptional care provided to him by Holy Name’s staff. The award takes its name from Dr. Lee’s favorite flower, the lotus, symbolizing beauty, resilience, and freedom from suffering.
The foundation highlighted the unique contributions and community impact of the three healthcare professionals.
Known across the hospital for her rare combination of gentleness and strength, Davis is celebrated by patients for creating an environment of safety and complete support. Beyond her day-to-day clinical work as a physical therapist, she dedicates her time to community outreach programs that educate and empower expectant mothers and new parents.
Serving on the front lines of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), Sadlon balances clinical excellence with mentoring as a unit preceptor and a member of the 2026 Holy Name Stroke Task Force. While currently pursuing her Master of Science in Nursing in Leadership, Sadlon also coordinates volunteer efforts with the York Street Mission, mobilizing fellow nurses for donation drives and health fairs to support families experiencing homelessness.
As a Patient Care Technician, Shehadeh represents the vital, often unseen floor support that keeps patient environments running safely. Her recognition highlights the award’s core mission: elevating all levels of clinical staff who provide profound humanity and care to individuals during their healing journeys.
By honoring these individuals, the foundation aims to celebrate the quiet forces that tie communities together.
“We are proud to see Erin Davis, Katarina Sadlon, and Nura Shehadeh recognized for their compassion and dedication. They are a powerful reflection of our entire staff’s commitment to exceptional patient care,” Cathleen Davey, president of the Holy Name Foundation said. “The Lotus Award aligns closely with our mission to provide comprehensive care for the body, mind, and soul.”
