Sometimes a simple act of thoughtfulness leaves the deepest impression. For one family, David Barton’s compassion created a moment they will never forget, earning David the May 2026 Honey Bee Award.

David, a patient care assistant (PCA) at Blessing Hospital, was nominated by a patient’s husband who witnessed what he described as “a miracle from above.” 

The patient’s wife had recently suffered a stroke and was experiencing severe aphasia, a neurological disorder caused that impairs a person's ability to communicate and understand both spoken and written language. During that visit, David took the time to ask a simple but meaningful question: “What kind of music does she like?”

When the husband shared that his wife loved Bon Jovi, David didn’t hesitate. He showed him the music on his phone and asked if he could play it for her. 

“I told him most definitely, because not much was helping her,” her husband shared.

As the music began to play, something remarkable happened.

“When David started playing the music for her, she started singing the Bon Jovi songs with him word for word,” the husband noted. “She was putting the song together.” 

For those few minutes, the patient was able to communicate through music, forming words and sentences in a way she hadn’t been able to since her stroke.

“Because of David’s above-and-beyond conduct, my wife, for a while, put sentences together. David didn’t have to do that,” her husband shared. “I am at peace with my wife because of your excellent and caring employee, David Barton. I will never be able to show him my full appreciation other than by recognizing him for his kindness and caring personality through this award nomination.”

Blessing Health System congratulates David Barton on receiving the May 2026 Honey Bee Award and thanks him for demonstrating empathy, thoughtfulness, and humanity in patient care. 


About the Honey Bee Award
The Honey Bee Award recognizes service provided by support staff that contribute to an exceptional patience experience and enhance the work environment. Click here to fill out a Honey Bee nomination form.