Celebrating Exceptional Care at SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Baraboo

Matt Schaaf, RN and Kim Kelly, Physical Therapist each receive awards

March 31, 2025 03:37 PM -

Baraboo, WI  – SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Baraboo recently celebrated the exceptional contributions of two remarkable healthcare professionals for their dedication to patient care and teamwork with prestigious awards. Both the BEE Award and the DAISY Award were presented to honor the exemplary service and compassion exhibited by Physical Therapist Kim Kelly and Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse Matt Schaaf, respectively.

Honoring Physical Therapist Kim Kelly with the BEE Award

On March 7, Kim Kelly, a devoted Physical Therapist, was honored with the BEE Award, a recognition that celebrates the contributions of non-nursing healthcare staff who play a vital role in patient care, often alongside nurses. This award not only highlights Kim's unwavering commitment to her patients but also her remarkable support for her colleagues.

Kim’s nomination, submitted by a colleague, emphasized her dedication to ensuring the safety, comfort, and recovery of every individual she works with. The heartfelt nomination read:

“We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Physical Therapist Kim Kelly for her unwavering dedication and outstanding contributions. Her commitment to patient care is truly exemplary, as she goes above and beyond to ensure the safety, comfort, and recovery of every individual she works with. Not only does Kim provide exceptional therapy services, but she also supports our nursing staff with compassion and teamwork, creating a collaborative environment that benefits everyone. Her positive attitude is infectious, brightening even the toughest days. Thank you, Kim, for your passion, professionalism, and the incredible impact you make every day!”

Kim’s passion and dedication are testaments to the values that the BEE Award honors, setting a standard for excellence within the hospital community.

Celebrating ICU Nurse Matt Schaaf with the DAISY Award

On March 10, Matt Schaaf, an Intensive Care Unit Registered Nurse, was awarded the distinguished DAISY Award. This international accolade recognizes nurses who demonstrate extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care, significantly impacting the lives of their patients and their families. Matt’s nomination stemmed from the heartfelt appreciation of a patient who was deeply moved by his exceptional care. The patient’s nomination letter beautifully conveyed the impact of Matt’s kindness:

“Matthew, you may not realize just how much of an impact you’ve had, but my family and I do. You treated me not just as a patient but as a person, and your care was a true gift, especially during the holiday season. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for all you’ve done. You’ve reminded me that even in the hardest moments, there are extraordinary people who bring hope and healing through their kindness.”

The DAISY Award celebrates the compassionate care provided by nurses like Matt and underscores the exceptional level of service offered at SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Baraboo.

Recognizing Excellence Within Our Community

These awards serve as a reminder of the incredible dedication and compassion demonstrated by healthcare professionals at SSM Health St. Clare Hospital – Baraboo. If you know a staff member who embodies these values, consider submitting a nomination. To recognize a deserving staff member, visit the following links to submit a nomination for the BEE Award or the DAISY Award:

Bee Award Nomination

Submit a nomination for the Bee Award.

DAISY Award Nomination

Submit a nomination for the Daisy Award.

Your nominations help honor the outstanding contributions of healthcare professionals who make a difference in the lives of patients and the community every day.

About SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Baraboo

SSM Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit health system serving the comprehensive health needs of communities across the Midwest through one of the largest integrated delivery systems in the nation.

SSM Health St. Clare Hospital - Baraboo is Sauk County’s largest hospital, serving the health care needs of residents in the greater Baraboo, Lake Delton and Wisconsin Dells area. The 100-bed hospital provides radiation oncology, total joint replacement, women’s health services, and other specialty care. In 2018, St. Clare Hospital was certified by the Joint Commission for diabetes education and heart failure education.

For more information, visit www.ssmhealth.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

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