Employees from across Kettering Health Network were honored on June 10 at the Ohio Hospital Association’s annual recognition dinner. Each hospital was represented by a nominee, chosen by their hospital leaders for being a healthcare worker who gives back to the community and routinely goes beyond the call of duty. Check out this year’s amazing nominees.
Debra Myers, RN, Trauma Program Manager, Greene and Soin
“If Deb is asked why she spends so many hours developing the trauma program, she will tell you that it is all about patient care. Deb is a strong advocate for Greene County and she wants to make sure that the residents of Greene County have the care they need in their own community. Deb is also diligent about making sure the physicians and staff have the equipment and training in order to care for patients. She spends many hours providing education and hands on learning for the two groups.”
Carolyn Neff, RN Bedside, Kettering Medical Center
“Carolyn reaches out consistently to fellow healthcare professionals throughout the hospital to get what is needed for her charitable commitments. She is the driving force behind numerous charitable projects, including: Care House –a local community program for abused children, making gift bags for patients at Hospice and the VA, and teaching first aid to Boy and Girl Scout troops. Her efforts in and out of the hospital are well known throughout the network.”
Bruce Pratt, Grounds Coordinator, Sycamore
“Bruce has also created a nature walk in the woods behind Sycamore Medical Center for the patients, visitors, staff and Sycamore Glen Retirement to use. Bruce also donates flower to staff and local residents following the annual planting that takes place at the hospital. Bruce is constantly planning activities and working with all patients, visitors and staff convenience in mind.”
Dixie Kirkland, RN, Emergency Services Coordinator, Grandview
“Dixie represents the mission and values of Kettering Health Network through her eagerness to volunteer wherever help is needed throughout the years. Dixie is active in her community, volunteering at the Humane Society, participating in health fairs, providing first aid services at the local Dayton Air Show, and teaching others about gun safety. She finds a way to assist employees in need, rallying a team to help with house repairs or collection donations.”
Donna Saraga, Community Relations Coordinator, Greene and Soin
“Donna is always quick to ask, ‘How can we help you?’ or ‘If we could help solve an issue for you, what would that be?’ Once Donna commits herself to addressing the answer to either question, she models our values of trustworthiness, innovation, care, competence, and collaboration. Donna anticipates a need, even before others recognize it. She is quick to work with our emergency department to offer first aid stations, where screening opportunities are available, physicians address health topics, and environmental services collects and offers worn hospital towels to equip a “doggie-drying station” at a county-wide event for dogs and their owners.”
Katy Body, RN, Lactation Consultant, Southview
“Katy continually invests her free time in her work. She regularly attends baby fairs in the Dayton region to raise awareness of Kettering Health Network’s First Steps program. Katy takes extra time to ensure that patients’ questions are answered, to develop new resources for First Steps, and to provide each patient with a caring and compassionate experience. Katy goes out of her way to ensure the office’s support group is an encouraging and fun environment, planning crafts and activities for parents in the group.”
Laura Reddix, RN, Behavioral Health, Fort Hamilton
“One of Laura’s greatest assets is her ability to meet the patient where they are, physically and mentally. She accommodates the patient’s learning needs in order to educate them thoroughly on diagnosis, medications, positive coping methods, community resources, and more pertaining to their situation. Laura understands, when the patient is informed and educated, the outcome is better.”