Minnesota Caregiver Wins National Award for Compassion

When Sabrina Ohl knocks on a resident's door each morning at Bancroft Creek Estates in Albert Lea, Minnesota, she brings more than medication. She brings a smile that sets the tone for everyone's entire day.

The resident assistant medication aide has turned caregiving into an art form. Between wake-up calls, baths, and daily tasks, she finds time to sit with residents who need to talk, play piano during lunch, and make everyone feel like family.

"She's in no hurry. She always has time no matter what," said resident Marian Ahnemann, who thinks of Ohl as a big sister.

Ohl's musical talent adds an extra layer of joy to Bancroft Creek. She plays piano by ear in the dining room, letting songs flow through her fingers without sheet music.

Retired band director Merrill Mielke, a resident, watches in amazement as Ohl plays any song requested. "She moves pretty fast, but she never moves too fast to be pleasant to you," he said.

The music creates powerful moments. Residents hear songs from their weddings, funerals, and cherished memories. Sometimes Ohl even comes in on her days off just to play.

One morning recently, Ohl comforted a resident who'd just lost her husband. They shared tears and hugs, stepping beyond caregiver and patient into something deeper.

"We all need each other in one way or another," Ohl said. "I always try to think about how I would want to be taken care of, or if it was my family."

That philosophy has guided Ohl since kindergarten, when she drew a picture of herself as a nurse caring for babies. She still has that drawing today.

Sunny's Take

Supervisor Kaley Pobanz never worries when Ohl is in the building. "She embodies all of the good qualities that Good Samaritan stands for," Pobanz said.

When Ohl received the National Ever Forward Caregiver Champion award, she was stunned. Walking into a surprise celebration with all eyes on her felt surreal.

But residents weren't surprised at all. They'd been experiencing her compassion every single day.

Ohl sees her relationship with residents as mutual. "It's kind of like having a bunch of grandparents. They're looking out for you just as much," she said.

For Ohl, the job feels less like work and more like home.