Team members honored by grateful donors

Five team members across the state were recognized for their hard work, dedication and compassionate care they provide patients. This Lynda A. Merriman Award for Compassionate Care was made possible thanks to a gift to Indiana University Health Foundation from Chuck Merriman in honor of his wife, Lynda Merriman. During her seven-month battle with cancer, Lynda and her family were deeply moved by the kind, warm care that Lynda received from nursing, hospice, chaplaincy and the social work teams at IU Health Simon Cancer Center.

In 2018, the award was presented to a registered nurse in the Home Care and Hospice department. Merriman later expanded the award, so IU Health Foundation could recognize a compassionate team member in each of IU Health’s five regions every year.

Angie Hartman

Angie Hartman is a Social Worker at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, and she was awarded The Lynda A. Merriman Award for Compassionate Care. Here is what one of her colleagues had to say:

“Angie consistently goes above and beyond in her role, demonstrating unparalleled dedication to patient well-being. She has the unique ability to create an environment of trust and comfort, ensuring each patient feels seen, heard and valued. Whether it’s taking extra time with patients to navigate challenges, offering a comforting presence during difficult times or advocating for the needs of those in their care, Angie exemplifies the true meaning of compassionate care.”

Danielle Halsey, MS, EP-C

Danielle Halsey works as a Team Lead specializing in Exercise Physiology. She played a pivotal role in the creation of the MOVE Program at the IU Health Simon Cancer Center. Danielle co-founded the MOVE program in 2022 to bring cancer exercise and rehabilitation services to patients throughout their cancer journey. With deep expertise in exercise oncology, transformed a conference room into a functional gym, launched in-person and virtual programs and created an internship to train future professionals. The program has received over 500 referrals and continues to grow under her leadership. Here is what members had to say about the impact that the program and Danielle had on their health journey: “MOVE helped me gain a lot of the strength that I had lost during my long hard battle with this awful disease. What I most appreciated about the program though was the kindness, understanding and positive attitudes shown by Dani and her staff.”

Kristen Ballard

Physical Therapist Kristen Ballard has worked as a trusted leader in wound care at IU Health Methodist since 2012, with expertise in treating necrotizing soft tissue infections and leading advancements in negative pressure wound therapy. Ballard’s colleagues recognized her mentorship, educating Operating Room nurses and medical residents on advanced techniques, and for driving process improvements to standardize necrotizing soft tissue infections (NSTI) care. Kristen also supports clinical education by precepting students, who consistently praise her thoughtful guidance and passion for teaching. Her impact spans patient care, clinical excellence and workforce development.

A member of the team shares an example of how Kristen demonstrates the values of compassion:

“Kristen models a structured and proactive method for pain management for her patients each day. She calls ahead each morning to collaborate with nursing units, and sets a schedule, prioritizing the pain management needs of patients.”

Virginia Vanden Dries

Virginia “Camille” Vanden Dries is a clinical nurse at IU Health Bloomington. She exemplifies compassionate care through her work with the Nurse Family Partnership program, where she delivers in-home nursing support to high-risk, marginalized, expecting mothers.

Beyond clinical care, she builds deep, trusting relationships connecting patients with essential resources like housing, food and behavioral health services. Camille meets patients wherever they are — even in encampments — offering unwavering support that empowers them to take steps toward healthier, more stable futures. Patients consistently express gratitude for her care, noting how seen, safe and supported they feel. Her dedication extends beyond work hours, as she and her family also provide aid to unhoused community members throughout the year.

Sylvia Ezra, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM

A Pharmacist at IU Health Arnett Primary Care, Dr. Sylvia Ezra is a highly respected pharmacist whose patient-centered care consistently exceeds expectations. She earned a net promoter score of 90.5% and achieved an impressive average A1C reduction rate of

2.32%, reflecting her clinical excellence and dedication to chronic disease management. Patients consistently praise her for being attentive, responsive, and knowledgeable, crediting her with helping them access medications and improve their health. Beyond direct care, Sylvia mentors new pharmacists and contributes to a culture of learning through educational initiatives.

“Sylvia’s approach to care is consistent, thoughtful and impactful. Her patients benefit from her attention to detail and her genuine investment in their well-being. She exemplifies the role of a pharmacist as a trusted healthcare provider,” a team member shared.

The Lynda A. Merriman Award for Compassionate Care is meant to serve as a daily inspiration and reminder to caregivers of how much patients and families truly appreciate heart-felt, compassionate care. The Lynda offers a donor-funded award. Thank you to the 2025 Lynda award winners for your continued dedication to patients and your team. You each exemplify IU Health’s value of compassion, which we define as our shared commitment to treat all people with respect, empathy and kindness.