Dedicated. Unusually patient. Devoted. Knowledgeable. Gentle. Caring. Attentive. These are just a few of the words patients have used to describe Curlean Fentress, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at Jewish Family Service of Tidewater. For these and other reasons, Fentress was honored as the 2012 Home Health Care Worker of the Year at JFS’ annual Employee Appreciation Dinner on June 12.
Jan Ganderson, RN, director of nursing for JFS, presented the award and remarked about Fentress’ dedication to the Home Health department and JFS.
Fentress has worked for JFS for more than 18 years, and although she’s cared for dozens of patients over the years, she has cared for the same patient since October 2008.
“I try to stay in the moment with my patients. I focus on the patients and make them feel like they are the most important part of my day,” says Fentress.
JFS honors longevity
Employees were recognized for five, 10, 15 and 20 years of service.
Betty Ann Levin, JFS executive director, commented on the many talents that JFS employees have. “We are so fortunate to have such talented and dedicated employees at JFS. We appreciate all you do for our clients and for the agency. ”
Recognized for five years of service
Duane Aikman, Older Adult Services
Eva Caine, Older Adult Services
Heidi Field, Clinical Department
Linda Glickman, Personal Affairs Management
Maury Handel, Older Adult Services
Jamie Hayes, Personal Affairs Management
Carolyn Hofler, Personal Affairs Management
Patricia Parker, RN, Home Health
Linda Troy, Personal Affairs Management
Recognized for 10 years of service
Lynn Earle, RD, Home Health
Dennis Patterson, LCSW, Clinical Department
Recognized for 15 years of service:
Michelle Fenley, LCSW, Clinical
Gale Garner, RN, Home Health
Recognized for 20 years of service:
Lucy Cardon, RN, Home Health
Linda Levy, RN, Home Health
by Amy Cobb