Connect to Purpose: A Journey of Hope, Gratitude, and Joy at TriStar Skyline

Tory Daughrity, facility director of communications and community engagement at TriStar Skyline Medical Center, experienced firsthand the life-saving care that she has long championed. When her father, Michael Holton, found himself in critical condition, the exceptional team at TriStar Skyline stepped in to deliver extraordinary care. 

After undergoing an initial procedure for a hematoma at another healthcare facility in Kentucky, Michael suffered a seizure and an additional bleed during recovery. His condition required specialized neurovascular care. Thanks to seamless collaboration between the referring facility and TriStar Skyline, Michael was airlifted to Nashville to receive the advanced care he urgently needed. 

Advanced Care That Surpassed All Expectations 

Upon his arrival at TriStar Skyline, Michael's care team sprang into action, exceeding all expectations with their expertise and compassion. His multidisciplinary team of physicians played a pivotal role his treatment, ensuring he received the right level of care.  Throughout his month-long stay, the dedication of nurses like Natalie and Athena in the Medical Intensive Care Unit and Bryleigh on the firth floor made a profound difference, while speech therapist, Riley, became a fierce advocate for his recovery, ensuring his smooth transition to the inpatient rehabilitation program. 

The extraordinary care extended far beyond clinical expertise. Patient care technicians like Ebony from the fifth floor and Tony in inpatient rehab left a lasting impression with their kindness and attentiveness to Michael and his family. Even the food service staff and environmental services team showed remarkable compassion, frequently checking in to see how they could help. This level exceptional care provided comfort and reassurance during a deeply challenging time. 

Compassion That Touched the Whole Family 

One of the most memorable moments came just before Michael’s discharge. Unsure if her father would live to celebrate another birthday, Daughrity was overcome with gratitude when speech therapist, Liz, organized a special birthday outing for him. The entire staff came together to celebrate not only his birthday, but also his remarkable journey to recovery. This heartfelt gesture encapsulated the hope and joy that define the patient experience at TriStar Skyline. 

A Grateful Family Reflects 

“I cannot say enough good things about TriStar Skyline,” said Michael’s wife, Vicky Holton. “When my husband was airlifted there, the team was ready and waiting. From the moment we arrived until the moment we left, the doctors, nurses and therapists were exceptional. With prayers and their care, my husband came home. It was nothing short of a miracle and a blessing.” 

Now, as Thanksgiving approaches, Tory Daughrity feels a profound sense of gratitude knowing she will celebrate the holiday with her father—a moment she once thought might never come. 

"As the storyteller for TriStar Skyline, I am honored to work alongside such extraordinary colleagues,” said Daughrity. “Never did I imagine that I would be telling my own family’s story. I went from fearing I would lose my dad to watching him walk out of those doors on his own. As a daughter, I am forever grateful for the care and love my family received. The team at TriStar Skyline inspires me every day, and this experience filled me with even greater pride in the work we do.” 

Michael Holton’s story is a testament to the dedication, expertise and compassion that define TriStar Skyline Medical Center. For the Holton family, it was more than medical care—it was a lifeline, a miracle and a reason to celebrate life.