Pictured above are the recipients of the Q4 Above and Beyond Awards:
Erin Cullen, Melissa Emery, Jeff Mitchell, Katie LeBlanc, Lauren Kay, Melissa Silver
Celebrating Our Q4 2025 Above and Beyond Award Recipients – Hospice & Palliative Care Team
At Cornerstone VNA, we are proud to honor the exceptional compassion, skill, and dedication of our team members through our Above and Beyond Awards. These quarterly recognitions are especially meaningful because they are driven by heartfelt nominations from the patients and families we serve, recognizing individuals who provide extraordinary care during some of life’s most difficult moments.
For Quarter 4, we are proud to shine a spotlight on members of our Hospice and Palliative Care Teams. These six individuals were selected based on the number of kudos received from patients and families this past year. Their words are a powerful reminder of the comfort, dignity, and peace our team provides every day.
Our Q4 2025 Above and Beyond Award Recipients
Lauren Kay, Chaplain
Lauren is recognized for his compassionate presence, emotional support, and ability to meet patients and families exactly where they are. His care brings peace and meaning during life’s most vulnerable moments. In addition to his care and support, Lauren shared his musical talents during our virtual Fall Hospice Memorial Service, offering comfort through song and reflection.
“It has been almost a full year since my mom’s death… You were amazing at meeting her where she was and making her feel special and loved. Thank you for giving us such a positive final chapter together.”
Katie Scanlon LeBlanc, Chaplain
Katie’s kindness and spiritual care have left a lasting impact on countless families. Her ability to thoughtfully guide families through end-of-life services offers dignity, comfort, and peace during times of loss.
“You made a profound impact on our lives. Your kindness and compassion helped ease our minds during this difficult journey… The service was just as she would’ve wanted. Dignified, respectful, yet filled with her presence.”
Jeff Mitchell, Nurse
Jeff is known for his calm presence, expert care, and advocacy for patients and families. His ability to step in with confidence and compassion brings reassurance when it is needed most.
“Jeff showed up very quickly, greeted us with a smile and handshake, and explained hospice and next steps. I admire his professionalism, knowledge, and calm, compassionate presence.”
Melissa Emery, Nurse
Melissa’s warmth, knowledge, and empathy help guide families through unfamiliar and emotional journeys with confidence and care.
“Thank you for all your love, support, and caring during my husband’s hospice journey. Melissa was truly AMAZING!”
Melissa Silver, Social Worker
Melissa is recognized for her support and guidance for both patients and caregivers. Her ability to listen, educate, and provide clarity has helped many make pivotal decisions with confidence and peace.
“She tied the whole experience together and always had time to talk through the big picture and what to expect next. Her guidance helped me make vitally important decisions.”
Erin Cullen, Palliative Care Nurse Practitioner
Erin is celebrated for her calming presence and ability to guide patients through complex and emotional conversations about care, comfort, and goals.
“Patients tell us how comforting Erin is. She brings understanding during the hardest conversations. ‘Thank God I have Erin on my side during this scary time.’”
Congratulations to Lauren, Katie, Jeff, Melissa, Melissa, and Erin. Your work is an extraordinary gift to the patients and families you serve, and your impact will be felt long after each encounter.
The Above and Beyond program allows patients and families to honor staff members through notes of appreciation, nominations, and donations made in their honor. We are deeply grateful to all who took the time to recognize our team and to our honorees who bring compassion and dignity into every moment of care.
Our Above and Beyond program allows our patients to celebrate exceptional staff members by sending a special note, nominating them for the Above and Beyond award, or making a donation in their honor.