Due to the wonderful feedback and nominations from our patients, families, and community members, we are thrilled to continue the ‘Above and Beyond’ Awards this year! Each quarter, this award celebrates team members who go the extra mile in providing exceptional care and support.
Our 2025 Quarter 1 Above and Beyond Award was recently given to three very deserving staff members from our Life Care-Private Duty Department. The announcement of this award was made even more special by the presence of last year’s Life Care recipient, Michelle Dow, Preceptor/Homemaker, who proudly presented these Quarter 1 awards. Janice Howard, Life Care Director, had the great pleasure of speaking with many of our Life Care patients and their grateful family members, who shared the wonderful feedback below. Congratulations to the following members of our Life Care Team who received heartfelt praise from our patients and families!
Pictured above (l to r): Janice Howard, Life Care Director; Michelle Dow, Preceptor/Homemaker (2024 Life Care Above and Beyond Award Recipient); Toni Scott, Homemaker; Cheryl Toms, Homemaker; Judi Sheing, Personal Care Service Provider; Jennifer Ufkin, President/CEO.
Toni Scott, Homemaker
A patient’s husband called to let us know that Toni was so helpful to his wife, and in turn it was helpful to him. He said not only did she help keep the house as tidy as she could, but she was also good company for her while she was there. His wife has now moved to a long-term care facility, and Toni really made a difference while she was home.
Our social worker, Jeni Calabrese, said, “I wanted to share some feedback that I received today about two of our Homemakers – Toni and Thelma. Both patients absolutely raved about the service they get from their individual homemakers, stating that the help they receive improves their home, relieves anxiety about not being able to do all the challenging tasks and helps them to preserve needed energy. Additionally, they both said it provided them with companionship and a sense of connection.”
A patient called to say how much she appreciates you. From the first day she met you she said that you were the nicest person, and she got along with you right away. She said that you never complain, you work fast, and you do quality work. You get everything done, and if you finish early, you always ask if there is anything else you can do for her, which is so nice. She said you are funny, easy to talk to, and she enjoys conversations with you. She requested to nominate you for our Above and Beyond Award, and she hoped more people would call or write in about you because she said you really deserved the recognition.
Congratulations, Toni!
The son of a patient called to say he is very happy with the way that you all are taking care of his dad and also how kind you are to his mom, you all are really an amazing team.
A patient’s husband is very pleased with everything you do for them. He said that you are doing a lovely job, and they are very happy that you are coming.
A caregiver called to share some kind words about the care you provide to his wife. He said that you come every Thursday and that you provide wonderful care. You are such a caring person and very deserving of recognition. You are so good at understanding her needs, and the bathroom is always cleaner when you are done helping her. They appreciate how you listen, and they love that you talk with them and enjoy your conversations together. He said that he and his wife owe a lot to Cornerstone VNA.
“I would like to say how much we enjoy Judi! She is a pleasure to deal with! She is very caring and understanding and is very conscientious about letting us know when she is running late, which helps us! I would recommend Judi in a heartbeat!!”
Nice work, Judi!
“Tickled pink with her; on a scale of 1-10, she is an 11!”
A patient called to thank us for sending Cheryl. They were very pleased with your work ethic and doing a last-minute visit. They are very impressed by your attention to details.
A patient called and said that she is very happy with you because you are very diligent and provide great service. You are always cheerful and a lot of fun. You are wonderful, and she looks forward to seeing you every week.
“I am writing to nominate my Life Care worker Cheryl. She is very caring. Lets me know when I am overdoing things. Lets me know when to take a rest or use ice. These are reminders I need. She helps motivate me to do things when I am feeling well. I enjoy her company and our talks as it can get lonely sometimes. She is so helpful to me. Makes sure I have what help I need. Offers resources I might need and able to get. She does all she can for me. Cheryl has gone above and beyond with the in-home care that I have needed.”
A patient called and said that she enjoyed having Cheryl for her care at home. She said that everyone is great, and they have the patience of saints!
Congratulations, Cheryl, Judi, and Toni!