PEACE recipients announced

Gayle McBurney, Tara Kelly

These employees received PEACE (Patient Experience Awards for Caring and Excellence) recognition for going above and beyond to meet patients’ and families’ needs.

Gayle McBurney, food service ambassador, Food and Nutrition, was honored for going above and beyond for a long-term patient who has been in and out of the hospital for many years. As the morning tray passer assigned to his floor, McBurney got to know the patient and listened to stories about his life. To cheer him up after he got disappointing news about his rehabilitation, she made a personalized quilt from different fabrics, patterns and his favorite colors to represent his life journey and delivered it to him on her day off. The patient was overcome with emotion and gratitude for McBurney’s efforts.

Tara Kelly, occupational therapist, was recognized for acts of caring and compassion for a patient who was admitted for neck surgery. Throughout her two-week stay, the patient had no visitors and was frequently cold because she didn’t have suitable clothes. Kelly gave some of her own clothes to the patient and helped her get dressed. The patient was discharged to a rehabilitation facility and was able to take the clothes with her. She expressed her thanks for Kelly’s thoughtfulness and kindness.

All employees, physicians and volunteers are eligible for the monthly PEACE recognition. Send nominations to: [email protected].