Each year our staff have the opportunity to nominate colleagues they feel not only do a wonderful job, but go above and beyond the call of duty for the Heart of Hospice Stars Award. This year our staff and volunteers have all risen above the challenges we faced, so it was exceptionally hard to narrow down the many nominations to only eight stars. The 2021 Heart of Hospice Stars are
- Jodari Burris, MSW
- Angela Groover, CNA
- Lauren Loftis, MD
- Wanda McCrea, Executive Assistant
- Rebecca Morgan, RN
- Angela Nigh, LPN
- Fiona Pearce, Volunteer
- Mina Zeini, MD
The Stars were honored on March 11th at a special event at the Space Coast Stadium. The attendees were safely social distanced and able celebrate together. CEO Joe Killian in his opening remarks said: “It is so great to see everyone and to be together again for the first time in a very long time! You are all stars in my book! You have done amazing work this past year and I am so thankful to be able to spend time together on this beautiful day celebrating the Heart of Hospice Star Honorees.” The honorees were welcomed into the stadium by Chief Financial Officer Marsha Abeln as they emerge from the dugout like All-stars. Special guest speaker, Captain Terry Ryan shared her moving personal experience of having both of her parents cared for by the St. Francis teams. Her personal testimony affirms that each life touched affects so much more than just one person. Her gratefulness was evident to each person who attended the event. When we walk the road in end of life with patients and families it is more about helping them find their last most important moments. The Stars that we celebrated do that in every moment of every day.
Each honoree was celebrated on the big screen with a tribute video, then received an award and custom sterling silver pin, a gift provided by Wesche Jewelers. The Stars were able to be congratulated in person by their colleagues, which was extra special being that our staff have not congregated since the 2020 Heart of Hospice Stars Awards. The weather was warm and windy which just made our hearts soar even more.
We would love to hear from you about a staff member or volunteer of St. Francis Reflections that you feel went above and beyond the call of duty. Send your comments to foundation@reflectionslsc.org.