Norfolk General Hospital recently held its annual “Oscars” and Dr. George Marshall Award ceremonies to honor its staff members.
Advertisement 2
Article content
Held in December, the events recognize those who “consistently went above and beyond in providing exceptional patient care and fostering a supportive team environment.”
Article content
Jennifer Edwards, director of quality, clinical practice and infection prevention and control, received the 2023 Dr. George Marshall Individual Award for her “strong dedication to safety and accountability, as well as her impactful role in nurturing a compassionate hospital environment.”
“I am deeply honored by this recognition,” said Edwards. “It validates the importance of the small gestures I believe in – extending a helping hand, bringing a smile to others by simply dressing up in a costume, or spreading cheer. It reaffirms why I’m here and why I do what I do.”
Advertisement 3
Article content
Edwards, who has been at NGH for 16 years, works closely with hospital teams and community members to design and implement policies, monitor risk, and maintain stringent control measures aligned with provincial and national guidelines.
Her work extends beyond the hospital as she oversees Holmes House, an addiction-based community program affiliated with NGH, and is chair of the Patient and Family Advisory Committee.
Edwards said a sense of family at the hospital helps motivate her.
“I have always been someone who cares about others, whether blood related or not. I like to help people – do something to brighten their day, even if it is just making them smile. I also feel strongly about healthcare and how it is provided is extremely important.
Advertisement 4
Article content
“By trying to be uplifting, share and care as much as I can, I hope that it impacts the lives I interact with and then has a trickle effect.”
NGH president and CEO Todd Stepanuik congratulated all the nominees of the Dr. George Marshal Award
“To be recognized by your peers and colleagues for the outstanding work you do every day is a reason to celebrate,” he said. “Our staff and physicians strive daily to fulfill our mission, which is to relieve illness and suffering, and to help people live healthier lives. I am extremely proud and inspired by the teamwork and dedication that’s carried out every day at NGH.”
At the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home, personal support worker Breanna Stone was named Employee of the Year for her exemplary care of residents.
Advertisement 5
Article content
“Working in a nursing home demands a unique kind of sensitivity, patience, respect and dedication,” said Vicky Florio, director of Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home. “Breanna Stone exemplifies all of these qualities while she provides quality, compassionate care to the residents who call NHNH home.”
Norfolk General and the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home also celebrated employees and physicians for their longstanding service and retirements.
In 2023, nearly 100 people were recognized with awards, with four of them marking 35 years or more of service.
Norfolk General and the Norfolk Hospital Nursing Home also support career advancement of their staff through initiatives including the Hazel Race Career Advancement Fund.
Created by John Race and named in memory of his wife, the fund provides financial assistance to staff interested in pursuing courses to advance their careers. This year, 10 applicants were awarded funding.
Article content