Harris Regional Hospital honors Cristian Mireles, NCP with 2025 Mercy Award

Harris Regional Hospital is pleased to announce that Cristian Mireles, National Certified Paramedic (NCP), Community Paramedic, has been selected as the recipient of the hospital's 2025 Mercy Award. The Mercy Award is a prestigious honor given to one employee from each of Lifepoint Health's facilities who profoundly impacts others’ lives and embodies the values upon which the organization was founded.

The Mercy Award was established in 2001 to commemorate the life and contributions of Scott Mercy, Lifepoint’s founding chairman and CEO. This award remains the highest distinction a Lifepoint employee can receive.

“At Harris Regional Hospital, we are committed to advancing our mission of making communities healthier, and Cristian is a shining example of that commitment,” said Ashley Hindman, chief executive officer for Harris Regional and Swain Community Hospitals. “He goes above and beyond every day to ensure that our patients receive the care they need and feel valued, both inside and outside the hospital. His dedication and humility make him an irreplaceable member of our team.”

As a Community Paramedic, Mireles’ role includes following up with patients after they have been discharged from the hospital, ensuring they continue to receive the care they need at home. His exceptional ability to develop meaningful relationships with his patients is reflected in the fact that many patients specifically request to continue seeing him, even when they decline other services. Mireles works collaboratively with other healthcare providers in the region to ensure continuity of care for his patients and to keep patients safe in their homes, often preventing avoidable hospitalizations which can be taxing, especially to elderly patients.

In addition to his primary responsibilities, Mireles is an active volunteer firefighter and contributes to fire prevention efforts in local schools. He also plays a vital role in the success of the Special Olympics each year and delivers holiday elder boxes to aging residents through the Department on Aging, helping to bring warmth and dignity to individuals who might otherwise feel isolated during the holidays.

Mireles’ commitment to his community became especially evident during Hurricane Helene, when he worked closely with county emergency services to check on elderly and homebound residents who were without power or communication. His prompt action and willingness to put others first during a time of uncertainty speak to his exemplary character.

Mireles often volunteers his time, whether it is responding to a community need, making additional visits to a patient, or offering a helping hand, all without seeking recognition or reward. His actions reflect a genuine desire to serve and uplift those around him.

At home, Mireles is a devoted husband and father, balancing the demands of his profession with grace and humility. He leads by example, demonstrating kindness, integrity, and compassion in all aspects of his life.

Harris Regional Hospital is proud to recognize Mireles with the 2025 Mercy Award for his exceptional service and dedication. He will be considered for the Lifepoint companywide Mercy Award, with the winner being announced this summer and honored at a ceremony in Nashville, TN.