2026 Mercy Award Recipient Named at STRHS-Lawrenceburg

Southern Tennessee Regional Health System – Lawrenceburg recently announced that Lauren Tidwell has been recognized as the facility’s 2026 Mercy Award winner. The Mercy Award recognizes one employee from each of Lifepoint Health’s facilities who profoundly touches the lives of others and best represents the spirit and values on which the company was founded.

 Established in 2001, the Mercy Award is an annual recognition program that honors the life and contributions of Scott Mercy, Lifepoint’s founding chairman and chief executive officer. The award is considered the highest honor a Lifepoint employee can receive.

 “At STRHS-Lawrenceburg, our caring and compassionate team members are at the heart of advancing our mission of making communities healthier – and Lauren Tidwell is a shining example of this day in and day out,” said Rhee Perry, CEO of STRHS-Lawrenceburg. “We are so proud to recognize her many contributions to caring for patients, supporting our hospital, and serving our community. I’m grateful for Lauren’s positive influence and the example she sets for all of us.”

 Lauren is truly one of the cornerstones of the nursing team at STRHS – Lawrenceburg, serving as a pillar of strength both within her specific department and throughout the hospital at large.  As Britni Harris, STRHS Director of Obstetrics shares, “She is the kind of nurse every patient hopes to have, and every team hopes to work with. Her compassion isn’t just something she shows—it’s something she lives.” Her sharp attention to detail ensures clinical excellence, while the profound empathy and compassion she exhibits provide a sense of peace to those during their most vulnerable moments.

However, Lauren’s dedication to leading by example does not end at the hospital doors. Her heart for service extends deep into the community and across the globe. She has volunteered for multiple medical mission trips, providing essential care to underserved populations abroad, and remains a devoted servant to her local church. Whether she is mentoring new staff, participating in community health outreach, or supporting local charitable initiatives, Lauren embodies the spirit of selflessness in every aspect of her life. 

Each facility winner, including Tidwell, will be considered for Lifepoint’s 2026 companywide Mercy Award. The companywide winner will be announced this summer and honored during a ceremony in Nashville, Tenn., in August.