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Featured Staff

Four times each year, Catholic Health awards the LOVE Award to staff members who demonstrate a personal commitment to our values in their daily work.

Anyone can nominate an associate for the LOVE award – patients, visitors, family members, physicians, volunteers and co-workers.

Meet our most recent award-winners at Father Baker Manor:

Melissa Wandell

2011 – Third Quarter Winner

Nurses Aide Melissa Wandell was nominated for the LOVE Award by a resident's family member, who stated:

"Dad came into Father Baker Manor's with Alzheimer's. The adjustment from home to Father Baker Manor was difficult. Dad just wanted to be home. His Alzheimer's was progressing, and he lost the ability to speak English. He understood, but could not communicate his needs."

The day that Melissa Wandell met this resident, she spoke to him in a pleasant voice and smiled at him. "Dad dubbed her as 'the pretty one.' By her gentle presence and patient care, he trusted her almost instantly. After a life of giving of himself to his family, friends, and co-workers, dad should be treated with respect, and that's what he gets from Melissa."

Another family member, who also nominated Melissa, said, "Unable to express his needs, Chester became very frustrated, unhappy, and difficult to handle. Melissa has an understanding of his illness and accepts him for who he is. She kindly explains each action to him – never raising her voice. In the morning, she takes time to talk to him, washes him and dresses him while making every attempt to color-coordinate his clothes. She shows him every article of clothing so that he can be more at ease. While doing this, she plays his favorite music. Somehow, Melissa is able to anticpate the needs of her residents and attends to them in every way possible. Other aides on her shirt are beginning to emulate her behavior, and Chester is gradually becoming less resistant to care."

Tracey Moore

2011 – Second Quarter Winner

Tracey Moore, a Certified Nursing Assistant, has been employed at Father Baker Manor for 16 years. He was nominated by his co-workers, who stated that he takes time to listen to those in need, showing empathy where needed, and treats all residents equally.

As an example of his commitment and dedication, they cited a situation in which a major clean-up was required. Tracey was on break at the time, and while others were overwhelmed with what needed to be done, he said, "I'll take care of it."

Tracey takes pride in his work and strives for excellence. He maintains high quality standards and reinforces positive behavior by his example.