Meghan Salgado, an Occupational Therapist in the Cohen Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Stamford Health, has been named a recipient of the 2026 Connecticut Hospital Association (CHA) Healthcare Heroes Award, which recognizes exceptional healthcare workers across the state.

Salgado is certified in Neonatal Touch and Massage and focuses on developmental and neuroprotective care for medically fragile infants, supporting sensory-motor development, bonding, and comfort for patients and their families. Her peers describe her clinical practice as person-centered, consistently reflecting the individual needs, strengths, and goals of each patient she serves. The CHA recognized this year's cohort of honorees at its Annual Meeting on June 11, 2026, where recipients received a certificate from CHA and a proclamation from the Office of Governor Ned Lamont. CHA has included a healthcare heroes recognition as part of its Annual Meeting since 2002.

"Meghan embodies the very best of Stamford Health by bringing compassion, clinical excellence, and an unwavering commitment to her patients and colleagues every day," said Ellen Komar, Senior Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer at Stamford Health. "Her dedication not only elevates the care we provide but also strengthens the culture of collaboration and respect that defines our organization. We are incredibly proud to see Meghan recognized by the CHA, and we celebrate this well-deserved honor as a reflection of the extraordinary work happening across our teams."

Stamford Health's Cohen NICU serves medically fragile newborns requiring specialized clinical intervention, with an interdisciplinary team that integrates occupational therapy as a core component of neonatal developmental care.