Published: June 18, 2025

Avita Recognizes Outstanding Employees with Monarch Award

BUCYRUS/GALION/ONTARIO – Four employees at Avita Health System are being honored with the Monarch Award. This award is presented to employees who make a difference in the patient experience across the continuum by providing excellent and compassionate care.

The Monarch Award recipients are Michelle Feik of Bucyrus Hospital, Jetlynn Scott and Tabitha Garberich of Galion Hospital, and Kelsi Kitzmiller of Ontario Hospital. These employees embody what the Monarch Award represents: Motivating, Optimistic, Nurturing, Adaptable, Respectful, Caring, and Helpful.

Michelle Feik is the Radiology Manager at Bucyrus Hospital. She was nominated for her compassion and leadership during a tragic accident that was transported to the emergency department. The nominator remarked “Michelle assisted with all the people who arrived at the hospital in disbelief and grief in the conference room. I saw her hugging and caring for everyone she could. She made sure they had water and Kleenex. What impressed me the most was when she explained that this was a freak accident and nobody was at fault, everything possible was done to save this young man. She said, “in all my years of experience with this type of tragedy the only thing I know to do is pray.” So that is what we did, Michelle led us in a beautiful prayer and we also said the Lord’s prayer. During a shocking event like this it can be a hug, a listening ear, someone who shows that they truly care that can leave such a lasting impression.”

Jetlynn Scott cares for patients in Inpatient Rehab at Galion Hospital. She was nominated for her patience and positivity. The nominator said “The way she speaks to our patients is motivating and nurturing. Patients respond in a positive way to Jetlynn. One patient commented recently that he received the best bed bath ever from Jetlynn. He had been in two different hospital settings before coming to inpatient rehab and the night Jetlynn bathed him he was sure to let me know how very pleased he was with his care. At the same time, we had another patient that was exhibiting behaviors and purposely wetting himself or soiling his brief. I listened to the patience and kind words Jetlynn used in her care with this patient; and that night on our shift this patient used his urinal and reported the need for a bowel movement on the bedside commode. I have always said the tone of your voice can have implications, and patients can read your sincerity and attitude whether positive or not.”

Tabitha Garberich cares for patients in the OB Unit at Galion Hospital. She received the Monarch Award for the support and encouragement that gave to a new mom and her baby. Her nominator shared “I was in a very hard position when it was time to give birth to my son. He was up for adoption because I felt I had no other choice. Tabby wasn’t just a tech, she was a friend. She told me it wasn’t too late to change things and bring my baby boy home. She offered to buy a car seat out of her own pocket, made calls to get me all the baby supplies I needed for him and had bags upon bags of baby supplies ready to go so I could bring him home. If it wasn’t for Tabby, I wouldn’t have my little boy with me today and he has changed my entire life for the better. Tabby will always have a special place in my heart and I will make sure my son will know what she did for us when he grows up.”

Kelsi Kitzmiller works in Laboratory at Ontario Hospital. She received the Monarch Award for her phlebotomy skills and going above and beyond to help with the future of cancer testing and treatment for a unique group of individuals. According to the nominator, “Kelsey volunteered her time to help with a Cancer study that involves research through the EDISYN consortium. This study involved a blood draw on 44 cancer patients that claimed that they were “very hard” sticks. Kelsey was able to draw blood on every patient with the first stick. There were many patients that were impressed with her skills and her attitude.”

Employees may be nominated for the Monarch Award by patients, families, and colleagues by filling out a form online or at one of the three Avita hospital locations. The award recipients are anonymously chosen by a committee of Avita employees and awarded at celebrations attended by the honoree’s colleagues.