We are proud to announce the 2025 recipients of the SWELL Award: Rachael Aguilera, Julia Bono, and Sejal Patel.
The SWELL Award, established in 2021, stands for S upport of the team, W ork ethic, E xcellent patient care, L eadership skills, and L earning opportunities. Each year, it recognizes Rehabilitation Services associates who exemplify these five pillars of excellence.
The award was created in honor of Sharon Wells, one of the original physical therapists when Saint Joseph Hospital in Elgin, Illinois, launched its inpatient rehabilitation program. Sharon was also the first SWELL Award recipient in 2021 and continues to embody the values of the award with more than 25 years of outstanding patient care and leadership.
Honoring Our 2025 SWELL Award Recipients
Rachael Aguilera
Recently promoted to Supervisor of Inpatient Rehabilitation Services, Rachael is recognized for her kindness, uplifting spirit, and passion for teaching. She leads with dedication to both her team and her patients, ensuring excellent clinical outcomes while creating a supportive environment. Rachael consistently encourages her colleagues with praise and guidance, and even in her leadership role, she remains deeply committed to putting patients first.
Julia Bono
Julia exemplifies teamwork and reliability. She regularly steps up during staffing challenges, moves seamlessly between levels of care, and takes on complex cases to support her colleagues. Known for her professionalism and evidence-based approach, Julia delivers excellent outcomes that are often noted by name in patient satisfaction surveys. Her thorough documentation also helps advocate for extended therapy time, improving both patient access and results.
Sejal Patel
Sejal is recognized for her passion, honesty, and dedication to holistic care. She mentors colleagues with the same thoughtfulness she shows her patients and has played a key role in launching the pelvic health program and improving referral workflows for lymphedema care. Sejal actively shares her expertise during think tanks, orientations, and complex case discussions, enhancing both patient care and team development.
Continuing a Legacy of Excellence
The SWELL Award is more than recognition. It is a celebration of the values that drive compassionate, high-quality care. Through their leadership, teamwork, and commitment to patients, Rachael, Julia, and Sejal embody the spirit of the award and carry forward Sharon Wells’ legacy of excellence.
Congratulations to the 2025 SWELL Award recipients. Your dedication makes a lasting impact every day, and we are proud to celebrate your achievements.