Southern Wisconsin Times

Mount Pleasant, WI (October 30, 2023) - Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01) honored three healthcare professionals today for their outstanding dedication and service to the community. Melissa Friesema, an oncology nurse at Advocate Aurora Medical Center, was presented with the prestigious 2023 Health Care Worker of the Year Award. Additionally, Hannah Steele, a registered pediatric nurse, and Gary Homeier, a nurse practitioner, were recognized as Health Care Heroes.

Melissa Friesema stood out among her peers for her exceptional commitment to patient care. As an oncology nurse, Melissa goes above and beyond to ensure her patients not only understand their treatment but also receive the emotional support they need. Her compassion and dedication extend beyond the walls of the medical center, as she selflessly devotes her personal time to supporting her patients. Congressman Steil commended Melissa for her unwavering compassion and presented her with the Health Care Worker of the Year Award.

Hannah Steele, a registered pediatric nurse, was recognized as a Health Care Hero for her remarkable service both within and outside the medical center. Before joining Advocate Aurora Medical Center, Hannah served in the Navy as a Division Officer at the Medical Home Port, Navy Readiness and Training Command Great Lakes. Her military background instilled in her a strong work ethic and determination, making her an exceptional healthcare professional. Hannah's dedication and achievements in military medicine earned her the title of "Best of the best." Congressman Steil presented her with a Health Care Hero certificate to acknowledge her outstanding contributions.

Gary Homeier, an acute critical care nurse practitioner, was also honored as a Health Care Hero. For the past 13 years, Gary has tirelessly cared for patients in Kenosha, Racine, Mount Pleasant, and Milwaukee. During the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gary fearlessly served on the frontlines, providing quality care to those in need. His commitment to the community extends beyond patient care, as he is dedicated to training others in the healthcare field. Congressman Steil praised Gary for his selflessness and presented him with a Health Care Hero certificate.

These exceptional healthcare professionals were nominated by local Wisconsin citizens and selected by Wisconsin's First Congressional District's Health Care Advisory Board. The board, comprised of healthcare professionals across Southeast Wisconsin, carefully reviewed the nominations and recognized the extraordinary contributions of Melissa, Hannah, and Gary.

The recognition bestowed upon Melissa Friesema, Hannah Steele, and Gary Homeier serves as a testament to their unwavering dedication to the well-being of their patients and the community. Their compassion, expertise, and selflessness are truly deserving of these honors. Congressman Steil expressed his gratitude for their outstanding service and congratulated them on their well-deserved recognition.

Congratulations to Melissa Friesema for being awarded the 2023 Health Care Worker of the Year, and to Hannah Steele and Gary Homeier for their well-deserved recognition as Health Care Heroes. Their commitment to patient care and their communities is an inspiration to all healthcare professionals.

To learn more, click on this link: https://steil.house.gov/media/press-releases/steil-presents-health-care-worker-of-the-year-award-to-mount-pleasant-oncology-nurse