MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES

1Q National Heroes that she comes through the door and immediately tends to the dishes or the Having only been absent twice since laundry—whatever needs to be done. his start in 2006, Haybert’s reliability is Sarah Lyons, HHA As an added benefit, the client shares, “I unmatched. Most recently, he had taken Greenville, NC Adults (GRA) adult nursing truly believe Sarah loves my furry friend one Friday off, a day that the client did (his dog) as much as me!” not have school. Only weeks later did Sarah stood out his office learn that Haybert actually had amongst her peers surgery on that day, doing everything with her cheerful smile, Haybert Louchie, LPN possible to allow him to return to work soft-spoken voice, and Luzerne County, PA Pediatrics (LUZ) the following Monday. ever-pleasant demeanor when Haybert is considered a Nodding at his client, he told his clinical joining the GRA team Hero to those who manager, “It’s all for him. He’s my boy, at the end of 2016. know him for many and I love my job.” Client Services Manager Kerri Albertine reasons, but especially asserts that those qualities are exactly for the way he what make her a favorite for every client consistently elevates Lisa Lucchese, RN she helps. Sarah respects and adapts well the needs of others Suffolk County, NY Skilled (SCS) adult to their changing moods. above his own. nursing

Kerri recalls, “Sarah has been there For the past several years, he has cared Lisa joined the SCS for two clients when their loved ones for one client, who requires extensive office in the fall of passed away, and helped them through care due to cognitive and physical 2017 when her client of the grieving process. She reminds them impairments and a tracheostomy. 22 years wished to of the happy memories and makes sure Haybert arrives at 6:30 am every switch all his service to they don’t forget them.” morning to perform all his client’s daily BAYADA. living activities, including a shower, Sarah regularly cares for five clients with which helps open the client’s airway and Upon visiting the varied clinical needs such as dementia, is often challenging due to the client’s client and meeting Lisa for the first time, dialysis, diabetes, chronic heart failure, physical limitations. Director Carla Martinoff was “blown and chronic back pain. Kerri believes her away within minutes by witnessing the knowledge in health care is outstanding. “In the family’s rural, remote home, amazing relationship” the two shared. airway clearance becomes a top priority Carla observed, “They work in perfect Sarah volunteers to train new aides that prior to the long van ride to school,” harmony together. The amount of are assigned to her cases and is always explains Clinical Educator Margaret mutual respect and love they have for the first to sign up for extra learning Floryshak. Haybert’s days at school each other is unlike anything I’ve ever experiences. “She is always striving to are “very busy with tracheal suction, seen.” learn more so she can help improve her nebulizer treatments, pulse oximetry clients’ quality of life,” says Kerri. checks, tube feedings, medication The client asserts that Lisa plays many administration, diaper changes, and roles in his life—advocate, caregiver, and One client’s son considers Sarah a neurological assessments, just to name a friend. Together, they have experienced “delight” who “routinely goes above few things,” explains Margaret. many uplifting events, such as concerts and beyond the call of duty” for his and outings to restaurants, but together, mom. The client herself loves that she The client’s family states that Haybert’s they have also conquered uphill battles, is “always in a good mood with a huge “caring, capable hands make it easy” such as wounds, infections, and broken smile on her face.” to leave their child and go to work. bones. “With Lisa as my guiding light,” His positive and upbeat attitude, calm he says, Sarah goes the extra mile by taking her demeanor, sense of humor, and sound “I know I will always be moving in the clients outside for fresh air, preparing judgment make him a welcomed right direction toward what is best for meals in advance, and volunteering to addition to his client’s classroom me and my health.” take on extra shifts when needed. environment, as well. Because the two were even able to One of Sarah’s clients became School staff recognize Haybert’s help other handicapped people in their quadriplegic after an accident, and he dedication and work ethic, adding, community, Carla dubbed them the admits that his personal care routine “Haybert gets involved with many “dynamic duo.” She explains, “there was has been a little intimidating to some. school events. He dresses as the Easter an issue with the railroad that did not However, he says, “Sarah doesn’t mind Bunny every year, dresses in costume allow passengers in wheelchairs to enter stepping up to the plate.” Her gentle for Halloween, and basically embraces and exit the train safely.” Feeling that demeanor and patience place the client any other classroom themes or activities others in wheelchairs could be seriously at ease. we have going on. His positivity rubs off injured, Carla adds, “they quickly sprang on the rest of the staff, so much so that into action, reaching out to the railroad Sarah prefers to keep busy, and her work we all want to be the best versions of and local media stations, eventually ethic is strong. Her client further notes ourselves.” getting the problem corrected by having

Continued on next page 1 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES the railroad change procedures around puts aside her personal conveniences to more than once. Physical therapy is not accessibility for wheelchairs.” offer her client optimal quality of life. a job to her. Janice lives her practice, and puts all her heart and soul into this Client Services Manager Jacqueline Stacey believes, “Donna works closely avocation.” Borruso claims that the “stability and with the family, and together, with health” of Lisa’s client “can be attributed their combined skill, dedication, and to the excellent care she provides.” She perseverance, her client continues to 2Q National Heroes pays close attention to changes in his show progress.” health and alerts her clinical manager and the doctors for immediate attention, Travis Brosius, HHA when necessary. Janice Hairr, PT Mechanicsburg, PA Pediatrics (MBP) Raleigh Durham, NC Senior Living (RDF) Colleagues in the field have said that home health Travis began his journey Lisa not only teaches other nurses but is with BAYADA in 2018 willing to learn from other nurses as well. For the past five years, at our Snyder County, LPN Crystal Franzese says, “Lisa sets a Janice has had quite an NY Pediatrics (SNY) great example for all nurses on why we impact on several office. He cared for two do what we do—not for the title, but assisted living residents brothers with complex to act from our hearts. She is a caring for her RDF office. One personal and behavioral person, a great nurse, and a perfect facility administrator needs, who were said coworker. We all love her.” considers her to be part to excel in his presence. Having of the family for her transferred to the Mechanicsburg, PA “passion, hard work, dedication, and Pediatrics (MBP) team later that year, Donna Nixon, RN genuine smile.” He feels “blessed and Travis found brand new adventures in Shrewsbury, NJ Pediatrics (SBP) honored” by Janice’s efforts in providing clients’ homes and classrooms—including therapy to his residents, sharing dinosaur hunts and fort-building Donna joined the SBP knowledge with staff, communicating expeditions. office in 2017, just in efficiently, and being a resource for any time to respond to a questions that arise. Client Services Manager Sarah referral for a young boy Schwalm shared a little about the boy with a rare form of However, Janice’s impact on one who inspired some of these adventures: epilepsy. She has 25-year-old woman with a traumatic “Travis took on the care for a client remained the child’s brain injury is particularly remarkable. whom we knew we would only have primary nurse ever since. Brought home by her parents after nearly for a short period of time. His client a year in a coma, the family recalls, had a weakened immune system, and Despite unimaginable personal tragedy “Janice showed up with a broad smile the family was extremely worried about and loss of her own, “Donna has been and confident manner. She spoke softly leaving him in the care of anyone other a steady fixture in her client’s life. She to our daughter and immediately began than close family. Travis was exactly what always manages to go to work with a a relationship that was encouraging and they needed. He helped his client feel smile, and always provides the best care patient, yet progressive and bold.” normal again.” possible,” according to Clinical Manager Stacey Bosco. In addition, Director Janice quickly noted that her client’s The client’s parents confirmed, “We Kimberly Anders notes, “Donna never Achilles tendons shortened, resulting were initially nervous about leaving our skips a beat, nor asks for help, and has in an inability to stretch her feet son for the day, but that didn’t last long. amazingly maintained a reliability ratio perpendicular to the floor. She was able Our son was excited to see Travis in the of 98.5%.” to help her reach the point of bearing morning and never wanted him to leave weight, but it was only on the tips of her in the afternoon. When we got home The client’s parents agree, adding that toes in the beginning. from work, we always heard about how Donna “has demonstrated exceptional much fun they had.” nursing care and a genuine devotion” to Janice advocated for tendon release their son’s well-being. They note that, surgery so that her client could Nurses and classroom teachers similarly although their son is very limited in his eventually stand and walk, and then sing Travis’s praises. One life skills speech, he can say two names—Mama helped the family find an orthopedist teacher acknowledged Travis for his and Donna. “We think that says it all,” who specialized in it. The day after the “outstanding work ethic and enthusiastic they proclaim. surgery, the client, in casts, took her first personality.” Another school staff steps with Janice at her side. member spoke about the smile and Donna adjusts her hours as needed to positive attitude he brings to work, accommodate her client’s family and Janice understands that caring for clients along with his helpfulness and initiative. has traveled with the family on several who have traumatic brain injuries is a Without being asked, Travis extends occasions. Whether it is to New York City marathon, not a sprint. The parents himself to fix things, help students with for a doctor’s appointment, Florida for share, “Janice simply had expectations their communication devices, retrieve a one-week Make-A-Wish Foundation of success for our daughter from the and set up assistive equipment, change trip, or St. Croix for a family vacation, she start. We’ve seen her shed a tear of joy

Continued on next page 2 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES students, assist with transfers, and Next on Michele’s agenda is to learn world, but is legally blind. Kendra uses all redirect inappropriate behaviors. Braille to benefit her two visually available technology to fulfill that need. impaired clients, and to earn her RN She knows that caring for her client Perhaps most importantly, LPN Donna degree, for which she has already begun would not be complete without caring Hartman noted, “His love of children is course work. Michele is an advocate in for her as an individual.” evident in his contact with them—a hug, every sense of the word. Whether it is a pat on the shoulder, or a kind word. advocating for fun and special attention Kendra easily establishes healthy Many of the students gravitate to Travis on a client’s birthday by bringing a relationships with her clients’ families when he enters the room.” princess crown and baking cupcakes, or and her colleagues, as she is often called incorporating music or physical therapy upon to train new nurses. Sarah concluded, “Travis anticipates into her routine as prescribed, Michele the needs of his clients and fellow leaves no stone unturned in meeting LPN Judy Rooks said, “Kendra is a great employees, and ensures everyone he her clients’ needs, or in providing example of professionalism. Her gentle comes in contact with feels supported opportunities to elevate their quality of spirit and kind ways are so calming for and special.” life. Michele also advocates for causes her clients. She is careful to explain she supports by encouraging everyone procedures, medications, and how she to wear crazy socks in support of Down will carry out the way she performs the Michele Bryson Ghent, LPN Syndrome Day and by serving two personal care she provides. Clients are Rock Hill, SC Pediatrics (ROC) foundations in honor of children who confident and secure with her.” tragically lost their lives in motor vehicle Michele presented accidents. Kendra continually evaluates the efficacy herself as the most of her client’s plan of care and Medication positive ball of energy Having signed up for South Carolina’s Administration Record, which at 20 pages when she joined ROC 2019 Lobby Day, the team leader said, long is said to be no easy task. Maureen in 2017, and has lived “Michele was amazing. Hero client shared, “Kendra is always looking for up to that reputation stories were heartfelt, on point, and ways to improve client care. Recently, ever since. really highlighted why we do what we she called to see if a nursing intervention do every day.” could be added to the MAR to help the Clinical Manager Linda Jacobs feels other nurses provide complete care. She Michele’s work stands out because she She plans to support North Carolina’s understands that communication is crucial is “constantly researching, creating, and efforts and goals at its Lobby Day, as in insuring that the client receives the best implementing amazing interventions well. “Whether it be for her clients’ possible care.” to strengthen her nursing care for the needs or other worthy causes, Michele improvement of client outcomes and is an advocacy phenom,” said Associate The detail in Kendra’s documentation is goals.” Director Jenni Cairns. “Michele makes “exemplary,” offering clear direction to us all strive to be better people, and we the entire team. Kendra’s client’s mother What was once a client’s cranial helmet love her for that.” has expressed respect and admiration became a ninja turtle shell, thanks to for her time management skills, and the Michele’s creativity. Similarly, baking “impeccable and exceptional” quality of pans were converted into magnetic letter Kendra Morrow, RN care she provides. The client’s mother boards, pompoms and popsicle sticks Tampa, FL (TAM) adult nursing shares that Kendra is a “ray of sunshine” were turned into gross motor activities, to her family, and she “radiates what it infant sleepers were transformed Kendra joined TAM in means to be a BAYADA nurse.” with snaps to accommodate g-tubes, 2014 as a new LPN and vests were created with pouches graduate. She has since for weights that can be removed or become an RN and is Randall “Scott” Landes, customized as a client grows or needs pursuing her BSN Spiritual Counselor change. Games were invented to include degree—all while Pennsylvania Boyertown Hospice (PBH) lots of textures to help visually impaired maintaining a 99.2% clients grow and develop. reliability rating and When Scott joined PBH working on one of the office’s most in 2018, little did he Michele’s initiative never ends and has challenging cases. Kendra’s primary client know that he would be been noticed. is a young adult with multiple complex assigned to care for a medical needs and severe physical terminally ill family “Michele is by far the most amazing limitations in addition to psychosocial member of Hospice nurse anyone could ask for,” said one needs that Kendra does not overlook. Practice Director of client’s mother. “Her life experience and Clinical Excellence experience in past careers has prepared Clinical Manager II Maureen Angela Snyder. He arrived in the home her perfectly for the role she plays as a Hildebrandt explained, “Kendra goes the day that Angela’s family member nurse for BAYADA today. She has helped above and beyond to ensure that the transitioned from curative aggressive care my son, who has special needs, meet client can engage in all of the activities to end of life care. If he was even the least several big milestones that he had been we take for granted. Her client loves bit intimidated, he didn’t show it. struggling with.” to read and engage in social media to maintain contact with the outside Continued on next page 3 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES

“He did his job with ease,” recalled 3Q National Heroes Angela, even though her family is comprised of devout Roman Catholics, “Stacy has always been willing to rise to and Scott is not a Catholic priest. Stacy Fortin, HHA any challenges with a true, ‘We got this!’ While Angela was instantly comforted Habilitation PA (HPA) spirit in her heart,” shared the client’s by Scott’s warm smile, he also quickly mother. “She is someone who digs in, gained the respect of her mother, which Stacy joined the HPA never looks back, and never gives up.” is not to be taken lightly. Scott assessed office a little more than The client’s mother ended each shift the needs of the patient and the entire two years ago and has telling Stacy, “Thank you, lady.” In turn, family, and worked hard and efficiently developed a reputation Stacy would reply, “Always.” to ensure those needs were met. He as an HHA who readily surrounded the family with love, and takes on a challenge. “That defines a Hero in my mind,” the showed the meaning of spiritual support, Clinical Manager Lona client’s mom wrote in her nomination. as designed for end of life care. Brostoski explains that “Always.” whether there are medical challenges or Angela explains, “Scott did a life review a lack of family support, “Stacy never Sadly, Stacy’s tenure with this client with us, allowing us to reminisce the waivers in her ability to give each client ended upon his recent, unexpected intricacies of her life. He prayed the their best life.” passing. Habilitation Manager Kiera Catholic version of our prayers, and he Capie recalls, “Stacy said that she lost took time to explore music that she loved Stacy’s work is rooted in compassion, a part of herself; they truly became her from her faith, and he sang them during as evidenced by her own words, “You family. It wasn’t work or a job for her; it every visit.” never know what someone’s story is, was her life and her heart. Stacy is really so treat everyone to compassion and in this field for the right reasons.” Scott’s patient became unresponsive six dignity.” One of Stacy’s clients has an days prior to her death, but Angela says intellectual disability, is blind, and lives Lona adds, “Stacy was devastated to say she did not need to be responsive for in his own apartment as a permanent the least. However, she did not miss a Scott to spiritually support her during US resident with a green card. Prior to shift with her other clients. Stacy put her that desperate time. Scott arrived at receiving her help, this client struggled clients before her own needs and grief. one of his final visits to find the family with maintaining a clean home, cooking She never ceases to amaze me and the exhausted, emotional, and hungry. meals, and keeping up with mail. She entire office.” He insisted that they get food and eat now helps him grocery shop and meal together as a family in the dining room prep each week. Stacy has also helped while he sat bedside with his patient. him pass multiple home inspections now Joyanne Benfield, LPN that it is the cleanest it has ever been. Hickory, NC Pediatrics (HIP) Angela shared that the meal turned out to be a gift to the entire family. Through By helping sort through his mail, Stacy Over the past nine the conversation that ensued, the patient ensures her client’s bills are paid on time, years at BAYADA, was able to experience the family’s love and she has even helped ensure that logging nearly 20,000 for each other, and the family was able he was able to reside in this country. service hours, Joyanne to affirm its ability to rally and move Lona explains, “Stacy found a letter has been called many forward without her. When Scott’s from Immigration Services stating that things by her patient passed, he spoke to everyone in her client missed a previous renewal colleagues, clients, the home, helped to fulfill their needs deadline and that he would be deported families, and office and helped them through the process of if he did not appear in Philadelphia, staff—all of them good. She’s been funeral planning. PA—a two-and-a-half-hour drive from characterized as a go-getter, a priceless his home. The client does not drive and addition, a great nurse, a good person, Angela indicated that the care Scott has no family assistance.” Stacy went a breath of fresh air, and an inspiration. provided is the type of hospice care she above and beyond to help her client is proud of, and wants to stand behind not only contact Immigration Services, Joyanne’s smile can be heard through as a hospice professional. When Scott but to arrange for his renewal to be the phone and is worn proudly while is not advocating for the needs of his accommodated locally. doing the work she considers to be her patients and their families, he has been calling. Her primary client of seven years advocating for his fellow caregivers. He The client expressed, “Stacy is a nice, has perhaps the most endearing name was instrumental in founding a support beautiful person. She is very special to for her. The client’s mother shares, “His group for clinicians who care for the me. Stacy helps me solve my problems.” name sign for her is literally ‘Backwards dying, to work through the grief that Mama,’ meaning his mama at night.” they experience on a daily basis. Stacy also cared for another client with multiple medical diagnoses and an Joyanne has proven to be a intellectual disability for nine years—even knowledgeable and dependable support before her start with BAYADA. The system for this family, who says she client’s mother, an advocate for children cares for their child as a person, not and adults like her son, expressed that just a client. She goes the extra mile. Stacy’s heroism is rooted in her noble For example, when this client lost his and brave accomplishments. Medicaid for a short period of time, Continued on next page 4 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES

Joyanne kept in constant contact with primary preceptor for new nurses. opportunities, or traveling far and wide the office to determine how she could Although Jenny is considered her team’s to care for a client in need, Michele is the help. She offered whatever services “go-to” hospice nurse and serves total package for her DPV team. were needed, including completing many patients, Richard believes her and submitting the necessary paperwork compassion, excellence, and reliability Michele joined BAYADA in 2003, and she to resolve the interruption in care. are best exemplified by her work with has been providing therapy services to one patient in particular. The patient, a her primary client since 2004. Along with RN Angela Barrier says, “Joyanne is man who was coping with the many side the support and encouragement of the an all-around good person and a great effects of COPD, traveled by car for 18 client’s family, Client Services Manager nurse. I am thankful to work with her hours to relocate from North Carolina to Joanne Berni believes that Michele’s and that my client has her on the team. Vermont to be closer to family. exceptional care and loving friendship I love to see the joy on Joyanne’s face enabled the client to graduate high when she tells me about our client’s One of COPD’s major side effects is anxiety. school and earn acceptance into college. accomplishments. Her goodness and For this man, anxiety was primarily triggered kindness are obvious in the way she by shortness of breath and respiratory The client’s journey was not without its treats people, asking and remembering impairment. The patient’s niece recalls, challenges. Michele used her “charming” anything important going on with those “Within the first couple minutes of meeting personality and creativity during what around her. Joyanne genuinely cares Jenny, my uncle felt a sense of ease and the client’s mother called her daughter’s about people’s well-being.” satisfaction. He felt safe. This was essential “grumpy” time. “Not easy” is how to his situation. This was the beginning of the mother characterized the tone of Colleagues further commend Joyanne for a trusted, professional, and compassionate those sessions, but Michele responded her excellent clinical and critical thinking relationship between patient and nurse.” with cheer, encouraging the client’s skills. Fellow HIP LPN Laurie Gilpin notes engagement through song. that Joyanne quickly notices changes in Many mornings when Jenny was client conditions and reports concerns. scheduled to visit, blizzard conditions or The client’s mother has a laundry list of Director Lillie Greenhill considers freezing rain prevailed. Still, she arrived examples that make her Michele’s “fan.” Joyanne “a special part of the core team” as promised, reassuring both patient and She says Michele “jumped through who keeps business running at its best. family that “the roads are just fine,” even hoops” to expand her skills in order to “Without her,” says Lillie, “we couldn’t when everyone knew they were not. match her daughter’s needs and age. She do the seemingly impossible, and we also shares that Michele does “especially probably would have lost several cases to Jenny’s patient did not trust others easily, well in communicating” with parents and other agencies due to lack of staffing.” but she was able to earn his trust over clients and is attentive in addressing the time. She worked tirelessly to form his needs of people with disabilities. Joyanne’s contributions to her clients’ interdisciplinary care team in a timely lives have been immeasurable. Lillie fashion. While respecting her patient’s By researching new equipment and attests that Joyanne is “always seeking relationship with his family members, she mastering the most difficult skills to learn a new skill, asking about new balanced his anxiety over his shortness to work on transfers, flexibility, and clients, offering to help other offices, of breath by empowering him to make mobility, Michele takes clients beyond and willing to switch up her schedule.” choices that were best for him. Richard their limitations. She brings so much As such, she is “the epitome of a explains, “Jenny ensured that with every positivity to her work, going above BAYADA Home Health Care Nurse.” change in condition, her patient was and beyond in ways that her clients made comfortable in the way he wanted and families could never expect. For to be. She carefully recommended and example, Michele utilized flash cards Jennifer Bradley, RN monitored his changes and ensured during a session to help her client study Vermont Burlington Hospice (VBH) appropriate responses to each one.” for a Spanish test. She involves siblings when appropriate and makes therapy Having joined BAYADA Ultimately, shares Richard, “The fun. Michele even brings fresh veggies in 2011 as an LNA, patient passed peacefully in his home from her home garden to a vegan family Jennifer transitioned to surrounded by his family and supported who appreciates them. She organizes the VBH office as an by Jenny.” Her patient affectionately large-scale collections, makes donations, RN in 2017. “In that considered Jenny a friend, but the family and finds community resources in order time,” says Director referred to her as “an angel on Earth.” to meet her clients’ needs. Richard Dickhaut, “Jenny has Joanne sums up, “Michele is the most demonstrated an ever-increasing Michele Puzio, PT perfect example of what DPV looks commitment to the practice of hospice Delaware Pediatric Visits (DPV) for in an employee. She has excellent and to BAYADA.” skills and a kind heart. Michele is highly Whether she is being dependable, compassionate, a great A proponent of excellence through shadowed by new communicator, and a strong advocate.” education, Jenny received her hospice employees, mentoring certification through the National new graduates, Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, participating in completed the BAYADA preceptor professional course, and volunteered to be the development Continued on next page 5 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES

4Q National Heroes Jackie also cared for another client One of Dominique’s clients, a woman who had stage four esophageal cancer, with quadriplegia resulting from a fall, helping him live his remaining days at acknowledged that she has a “take- Jacqueline Alexander, CNA home instead of the nursing home he charge personality that does not have to Greenville, NC Adult (GRA) was in. A quick bond formed between be coached—she just does it.” Around the two as she learned about his life and the time that Dominique was assigned Jacqueline is an family through old photos, and as she to provide her care well over a year ago, experienced CNA who tempered his stubborn, independent the client’s in-home therapy and nursing joined the Greenville, spirit with just the right combination services were ending, which caused her NC Adults (GRA) of “tough love” and compassion to anxiety. However, the client admits that adult nursing office in effectively meet his needs. He would she felt Dominique’s confidence and October 2018. Client often “fuss when Jackie would get him trust on day one. “I trusted her more Services Manager Kerri to do things, and tell her to just leave than my husband,” she said. Albertine recalls, “I him alone,” explains Kerri. Jackie’s saw a spark in her eyes and could tell response was, “Not on my watch. I care Dominique accompanied her client that she would one day be our Hero.” about you too much.” to every single one of her scheduled Jackie has since proven to be a hard outpatient physical therapy worker and a favorite among their many At one point, Jackie noticed the client appointments. She was attentive, took clients, due in part to her reputation for was eating less because he became too notes, and was able to carry out the “spoiling” them. weak to feed himself, but too proud techniques at home, which doubled to ask for help. So, Jackie became his or tripled the value of each session, Recently, a 75-year-old woman, who voice. She noted his change in condition according to a supervisor. “Dominique shattered both kneecaps, was returning and garnered support from the rest of knows when to be playful and when to home from the hospital just as her the team with feedings. Kerri believes be more serious and encouraging,” he husband was traveling across the country the effort ultimately prolonged his added. Similarly, the client’s therapist to address his own medical needs. life. When the client’s family knew he commented that her “calm and confident When the office was asked to find the was approaching the end of his life, nature” instilled the client’s complete client 24/7 care, they put Jackie on the they stayed with him and canceled his trust in her, despite a tremendous fear case. The couple “had an awesome scheduled caregivers—except for Jackie. of falling and transferring. surprise” come into their lives when she The family shared that, when Jackie “walked through their front door with pulled into the driveway, he felt at peace At one point, the client decided to take a a wonderful smile on her face and a and was ready to pass. They felt he did break from physical therapy, and instead pleasant, professional manner and went not wait until she came in, so he would began a routine of going to the YMCA immediately to work.” not pass “on her watch.” three times per week—with Dominique by her side, of course. During a visit, Lisa The client shared, “Almost immediately, Kerri sums, “Jackie has worked with observed the client using her walker with Jackie had our lives organized and many clients and has left a piece of her gait belt on while walking the hallway scheduled very proficiently.” She helped with each of them.” with Dominique alongside her. Then, the her client’s mobility by assisting her in client took a step hands-free from her and out of her wheelchair, then with supports. Lisa recalls, “The client was range of motion exercises as her strength Dominique Byers, CNA walking independently, taking one step improved, and eventually with walks Assistive Care of the Triad, NC (ACT) then exclaiming, ‘Thank you, Lord Jesus!’ around the house and to hair and nail She painstakingly placed the other foot appointments in the community. Dominique has had a in front, and once it was firmly planted remarkable impact on on the ground, she repeated, ‘Thank Jackie’s excellent cooking also her clients, but you will you, Lord Jesus.’ Dominique was right contributed to her favorability. Although never hear that from beside her for it all, keeping pace.” they are early risers, the couple chose to her. According wait for Jackie before eating. She made to Clinical Manager The client’s husband feels that Dominique’s French toast to order, and introduced Lisa Boland, she “high level of professionalism” and them to bacon, egg, and cheese has an energetic “self-starter mentality, along with the sandwiches—their new favorite. They personality and a passion for taking care obvious pride she takes in her work” joked that Jackie’s bacon was the “real” of people, yet she is very modest about have proven to be a “major factor in his kind cooked on the stove instead of the all that she does for them. wife’s continuous improvement.” “fake” kind cooked in the microwave. Jackie was considered family. Lisa says, “When Dominique is at work, Dominique also served as the primary it is evident that she is not only being led caregiver for two additional clients, a When the client’s condition improved by her knowledge and training, but also husband and wife with significant illness and her hours were reduced, Jackie, by her heart. Every time I have walked and complex issues. While the wife’s their caregiver of choice, gladly adjusted in a room with her, she displayed that demeanor was “sweet and quiet,” the her schedule. Even when the client was big, warm smile that exudes acceptance, temperament of the husband, a man of ready for discharge, the couple could not caring, confidence, and hope.” large stature diagnosed with dementia, bear to let her go—instead, deciding to was aggressive, which significantly keep her services twice a week. Continued on next page 6 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES limited the number of aides willing to She oriented the new nurses assigned to Amanda Lyons, LPN take on the case. Dominique worked far their care and alternated her days working Mt. Laurel, NJ Pediatrics (MLP) more shifts than any other aide, seeing with each of the girls, so she became very the husband’s underlying goodness familiar with the care they each needed. Amanda began her within, and offered her kindness and Associate Director Brian Cleary notes, BAYADA journey in compassion effortlessly. “Carrie is a guru to her clients’ care. She 2016 as the first nurse is relied on to be the trainer in the home resident in the MLP It was an especially trying time when the when nurses are being oriented. When office. Client Services wife’s life came to an unexpected and the clinical managers need to clarify Manager Michelle untimely end. “Dominique reflected that orders or get a pulse on what’s going on, Moran recalls being this was a sad time, and the husband they go to Carrie.” first impressed by struggled with immense grief almost Amanda’s ability to “make you feel every day. She listened and showed Foxglove Division (FOX) Manager of happy just in idle conversation.” She empathy for the husband.” Clinical Operations Lisa Fiore has adds, “Amanda is radiant with an energy personally observed Carrie precept that warms a room, a home, and even a Lisa adds, “Dominique supported her and says, “She continually offers phone conversation—and that warmth colleagues, sharing successful strategies suggestions and correction in a helpful, can be healing.” that helped her calm her client’s nonthreatening manner.” Among aggression. I am certain that the client Carrie’s many duties are tube feedings, As part of the Nurse Residency Program, felt her compassion—that spirit of administration of medication, medical Amanda was required to visit many universal faith, hope and love.” supply cleaning and changing, and homes with clients of varied diagnoses. respiratory therapy with nebulizers, vest She loved every minute of it and proved In all, Lisa attests, “Dominique’s ability to therapy, and cough assist. The personal to be a hard worker from the very build relationships is evident, positively care she provides includes bathing, hair beginning. impacting everyone involved—herself, washing, dressing, and teeth brushing. the client, and our company.” Carrie understands how crucial it is After completing the program, Amanda to the girls’ happiness and health to chose to care for a boy with Type 1 get them out of bed, practice range- diabetes, a history of seizures, and Carrie Moyer, LPN of-motion exercises, monitor for skin cerebral palsy. To properly meet the State College, PA Adult (STA) breakdown, and interpret their unspoken demands of this case, Clinical Manager language to keep them comfortable and Educator Chantel Denny admits Ten years have passed and smiling. On top of all of that, she that the right nurse must be physically since Carrie joined organizes supplies, tracks prescriptions, fit and demonstrate a good lifting BAYADA and started cleans, and does laundry. technique, perform his exercises, and use providing care in a his adaptive equipment. The nurse must home of twin girls Their mother touts, “The girls’ daily also possess excellent critical thinking born with cerebral schedule is continuous and demanding, skills to recognize the symptoms of high dysgenesis, cortical and Carrie does it without complaint.” and low blood sugars and to intervene visual impairment, Brian adds, “Carrie works long days, appropriately with insulin administration seizure disorder, and cerebral palsy. sometimes 6 or 7 day in a row. She is or emergent Diastat for seizures. After being relatively healthy for her engaged with the family and is a leader first 11 years, one of the sisters returned in the home.” Amanda did not disappoint. Chantel home from a hospitalization with a shares, “I am confident in Amanda’s tracheostomy and a feeding tube and As if that isn’t enough, Carrie has gone skills and trust her completely to train began receiving Carrie’s care. above and beyond to help select new new nurses on this client’s care. More equipment, design a bed and bath importantly, his parents do, too.” The girls’ mother recalled, “We had renovation, and even design a deck with Perhaps most importantly, however, is a whole new way to eat and breathe, an accessibility ramp. Lisa says, “Carrie the joyful fact that, after nearly three- a whole new regimen of care, and an has demonstrated unwavering dedication and-a-half years, the client’s face still overwhelming new supply of medical to these two sisters by changing lights up when she enters the room. equipment. Unfortunately, we also her schedule to help bring them discovered we had all new infections to home post-hospitalization, providing For the past two years, Amanda has deal with. Carrie jumped in with both education to other nurses, seeking also touched the life of another client, feet. We did a lot of learning together.” suggestions on how she can improve her becoming “an integral part in his documentation, and providing a great medical care, development, and overall A few years later, after Carrie and the support to the clients’ mother.” well-being,” according to his mother. She girls’ mother felt they had mastered that accompanies the client to appointments daughter’s care, the other daughter was The clients’ mother affirms, “Basically, I and has added value to decisions made hospitalized with pneumonia. Sadly, she could not imagine life without Carrie’s about his course of treatment. Amanda also returned home with a tracheostomy help. My whole family loves her and I go also accompanies this child to school and feeding tube. Carrie played an to work every day knowing my girls are and makes it a priority to incorporate extensive, integral role in developing a in the best hands possible.” therapies and treatments into his routine. program for BAYADA’s new client, similar to the one that worked for her sister. Continued on next page 7 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES

For example, Amanda always makes sure One family was introduced to Rose Lisa Wedman, PT to set up his talker and offer plenty of about a year ago when their 24-week Sierra Vista, AZ Home Health (SVV) opportunities for him to communicate premature baby came home from the and practice “talking” at home. NICU after six months, and still required In 2010 when Director oxygen, pulse oximetry, tube feedings, Brandy Owen was No stranger to going above and beyond and additional care for significant reflux. planning to open for her clients, Amanda embraces The client’s mother shares, “It was an the SVV office, she the added traveling requested in the incredibly stressful time in our lives. recruited Lisa to join summertime, accompanying the family Rose was there the day after our son her team. Together, on trips to the shore where they can came home, and after her very first they followed through spend more quality time together. shift, I knew that she was a godsend. on their vision and have She also supports an annual walk that She would pick up on things clinically, upheld the standards of service they set benefits the client’s school. sometimes even before I would.” for their community. Brandy considers The client’s mother feels privileged to Lisa to be the backbone of the office’s have Amanda advocating for her son, The client’s mother now depends on Benson area, a very rural community always keeping him comfortable, active, Rose to attend doctor appointments located 45 minutes from her home, and and engaged. “She reads to him, takes to ensure everything about her son’s someone who has “never lost her zeal him for walks, and continues to keep him condition is communicated precisely for doing it right, no matter the cost or motivated. Amanda really cares about and that all questions are asked and how far out of the way she must go.” him and his progress both medically and answered. Through the course of the developmentally.” past year, the client has come to trust A contributing factor to the office’s and bond with Rose, too. His mom says, success is the high standards Lisa has set Clinical Manager Teresa Clifford “My son beams when Rose walks in the for her quality of client care, which rubs believes Amanda is the total package, door and immediately wants her to hold off on her colleagues as she provides adding, “When it comes to documenting him.” Likewise, she beams when she training to field employees across all and transcribing orders, I am not easy to considers his accomplishments, like using disciplines. please, but Amanda passes my scrutiny.” a sippy cup, holding his own spoon, Colleague and 2018 RN Hero of the Year and eating foods such as oatmeal and Clinical Manager Kendra De Bruler Mat Gunkel agrees, “She constantly veggie sticks. He even showed off his says, “Lisa relates to clients in a way brings in thoughtful supplies and new-found mobility to Clinical Manager that makes them want to perform at reorganizes workspaces to perfection, Debra Reed by cruising around the the top of their abilities. They want but more important than her clinical room with a push toy. her to be proud of them and see their strength is her heart.” Chantel expands, accomplishments.” In fact, clients “Amanda understands the importance For more than five years, Rose has also have sent her video recordings of of not just going to work, but going to cared for a girl with developmental delays their successes, even after they were work to make a difference.” and behavioral issues who requires tube discharged. Perhaps that’s because feedings. Debra says, “Rose worked they bear witness to Lisa’s dedication through the client’s medical issues to to meeting their own needs, no matter Rose Arana, RN help her achieve some major milestones what it takes. Mt. Laurel, NJ Pediatrics (MLP) appropriate to her chronologic age. As her client’s condition became more Time and again, Lisa has proven Rose has been a staple complex with the onset of seizures, she unwavering dedication to going above in the MLP office for was integral in monitoring and reporting and beyond for others. She once spent more than 20 years. any changes in neurologic status.” In all, hours on the phone to obtain care for She most often works Debra thinks that Rose’s dedication to a client’s significant depression when as the primary nurse maximizing each client’s health potential, his insurance company offered no local on Client Services while also fostering their developmental providers. Lisa stopped at food banks Manager Michelle growth, is what sets her apart. for clients who had empty cupboards, Moran’s cases, who washed dishes, made meals, did laundry, admires her professional demeanor and A client’s mother expressed a similar walked dogs, and navigated a web the meticulous care she provides. perspective. “Having a sick child is of bureaucracy to secure orders and hard; having nurses in and out of the equipment for clients in need. Because of her reputation as a good home is hard. Rose has made both of communicator and someone who is in these things much easier. I trust her Lisa’s concern for others is genuine, and tune to the fine details of her work, Rose in my home with my child, and most her clients and their families sense it. gains the trust of the families she serves importantly, I trust her to know exactly She begins conversations with a pleasant very easily. Michelle says that Rose’s what to do if there was ever a medical “How are you?” and waits patiently “reassuring, strong, calm, and confident” concern or emergency.” for a reply. Lisa checks in, even when demeanor contributes to her being an she doesn’t need to, just to make sure effective source of emotional support. everything is okay. She has motivated participation in therapy with the promise

Continued on next page 8 MEET OUR 2019 NATIONAL HEROES of a rousing game of Bananagrams, and in perhaps her most noteworthy story, with the promise of a horseback ride.

Brandy recalls, “The client, a very sick man with cancer, had a goal to ride a horse one last time. After ensuring all the clinicians on his case were on board, Lisa developed the plan that would strengthen the client enough to tolerate the trip to the therapeutic equine center, the horse ride, and the return trip home.” Despite leaving for vacation the same day, she traveled 95 minutes on the day of the scheduled ride and assisted her client in mounting the horse. Although difficult, it was done with confidence.

Lisa remained close by until the client tired. Then, she ensured he got back in his truck safely and returned home without incident. Lisa coordinated two more horseback rides for this man before he passed.

Through the years, Lisa has affectionately been dubbed many things by her clients and their families: the miracle worker, the drill sergeant, the one with the healing hands, the KT tape queen, the highlight of the day, Attila the Hun, the tough, gentle therapist, and the sassy redhead. However, friend and colleague RN Holly Judd has dubbed Lisa “a Hero” and someone who emulates The BAYADA Way in the fullest sense. “Lisa has a smile that clients look forward to seeing, and a firm work ethic that allows them to reach their goals and have a better quality of life.”

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