The Caregiver Team of the Year Award honors a care team who has advanced world-class healthcare in a significant way, with lasting impact at Wellstar, and serves as an exemplary role model to others. 

Congratulations to Dr. Richard Myung, Dr. Theresa Luu and Dr. Ryan Burke on being recognized as the 2026 Caregiver Team of the Year honorees. Their leadership of the Wellstar Center for Cardiovascular Care’s Cardiac Surgery team at Kennestone reflects the very heart of our mission and the extraordinary difference dedicated caregivers can make in the lives of others. 

Led by cardiac surgeons and supported by an exceptional team of advanced practice providers, perfusionists, nurses, and techs, Dr. Ryan Burke, Dr. Theresa Luu and Dr. Richard Myung and the Cardiac Surgery team at Kennestone Regional Medical Center has achieved something truly extraordinary, earning the highest possible, three-star ratings from the Society of Thoracic Surgeons across five major cardiac surgery categories. That distinction places these physicians and this team among the top two percent of cardiac surgery programs in North America — an achievement few hospitals ever reach. 

But beyond the accolades, what sets this team apart is their belief that every patient deserves not only world‑class medicine, but dignity, compassion and hope. They set the national standard in heart care and treat every patient like family. 

If you’d like to make a tax-deductible donation to Wellstar Foundation, please visit foundation.wellstar.org/give-now.