Special to The Post-Searchlight

Memorial Hospital and Manor’s J. Sydney Cochran, M.D., was recently awarded the prestigious Georgia Hospital Heroes Award at the Georgia Hospital Association’s (GHA) annual Hospital Heroes Awards luncheon in Atlanta. Cochran, who was one of only 10 individuals statewide to receive the award, was recognized for his years of service and tireless dedication to his patients and community residents. He is the first resident of Bainbridge to ever receive the award.

Cochran’s dedication to his profession is unlike other doctors. If he is concerned about a critical patient, he will stay all night at the hospital with him or her. When a hospitalist program was introduced at the hospital two years ago, Dr. Cochran was the only primary care physician on staff who opted to continue treating and admitting his own patients. Having known many of his patients for several years, he knew they would be more comfortable if he continued to treat them, rather than turn them over to a physician who did not know them personally.

Cochran’s compassion and dedication extends beyond his patients. Every year, he participates in the local Relay for Life. He attends the local high school football games and volunteers as the team physician. He has given free physicals to high school and middle school athletes for more than 15 years.

“Dr. Cochran is an exceptional physician who always goes above and beyond for his patients,” said Joe Parker, president of GHA. “His community is fortunate to have him and his services. He is an ideal recipient of this award.”

GHA’s Hospital Heroes Awards are presented every year to 10 individuals who display outstanding service to the health care field; in addition, one individual is presented with a Lifetime Achievement award, signifying at least 30 years of service.