2010

Seated L-R: Angela McKendree and Mary Ashbaugh
Standing L-R: Louis Nazarak and Donald Hritz
Not pictured: Amanda Bornais

Amanda Bornais – Vascular Lab

A coworker nominated Amanda.

Upon my rounds through the Vascular Lab last week I noticed a large bag of hand knitted caps. I asked what the caps were for and I was told Amanda and her mother knitted the caps and they were being sent to Radiation Oncology to be distributed to patients who had lost their hair. Apparently Amanda had come up with the idea while performing testing on a cancer patient. She purchased the yarn, enlisted the assistance of her mother and spent a great deal of her own time to make this thoughtful donation. She was attempting to do this silently until I noticed the bag. I feel Amanda’s actions exemplify our CARING values and our vision, Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.

Angela McKendree, PT

A coworker nominated Angela.

Angela is a Pediatric Physical Therapist who works with children in our Crichton Outpatient Clinic and in the RICN follow-up clinic.Earlier this year, Angela worked to initiate and facilitate applications for Therapeutic Tricycles through the AMBUCS Resource Center, Altoona. Therapeutic tricycles are designed for people with disabilities and AMBUCS is dedicated to creating opportunities for mobility and independence.Angela worked closely with patients, families and AMBUCS to complete and often update lengthy applications which was a process taking several months.Thanks to Angela’s efforts and the generosity of AMBUCS, five of Angela’s patients were notified that they had been awarded Therapeutic Tricycles. A ceremony was held in June 2010 to make the awards to the delighted families and children.Angela exemplifies “Putting the patient first” in her efforts to improve the lives of her young patients. She should be commended for her efforts and for her dedication to the children of our community.

Mary Ashbaugh – Crichton Center

An employee of Select nominated Mary.

I would like to recognize Mary Ashbaugh, DON of the Crichton Center. A minister and family of one of our patients requested us to conduct a religious ceremony for the patient. Like Conemaugh, we try to do everything that we can for the spiritual health and well being of our patients. Our facilities at Select could not accommodate the patient’s request. With her physician’s agreement, I made contact with Mary at Crichton. I called Mary to investigate if their facilities were available for our use. Without hesitation, Mary agreed to help us meet the needs of our patient. After more discussion of the ceremony, it was determined that the patient’s medical condition would not allow her to participate. While the patient agreed with the medical personnel, the family was somewhat disappointed that the ceremony could not be held. Mary graciously helped me explain the situation and clinical concerns to the patient’s family. In conclusion, I want to say that Mary stood by me the entire time, willing to go the extra mile in order to assist in this patient’s wish. I would hope for her to be recognized for her truly empathic and selfless act in collaborating with us. Mary’s Director commented: This is just one example of the many selfless deeds Mary does to advocate for her patients. She often works on the floor to cover for staff, she accompanies patients for testing, etc. She truly lives the CARING values, especially, “Always put the patient first”.

Louis Nazarak, Donald Hritz, Security
A coworker nominated the three men. 
This is Lou and Don’s third Gold Stars.

Lou & Don’s coworker, Greg Edsall was recognized in September for the story described below. Lou & Don were on vacation and unable to be recognized in September.

In December there was a tragic structure fire with possible entrapment in a residence behind hospital property. The Johnstown Police Department requested assistance. Upon arrival of our officers, they found fire and smoke coming from the front of the structure. Lou and Don went to the rear of the structure to see if they could make entry to assist any fire victims who may still be inside. Greg went to the right side of the structure to see if he could assist any victims who might be at the windows. Due to unsafe conditions, Lou and Don were unable to enter the structure. Greg had to retreat because of power lines that were catching fire. The officers made sure all resident physicians were safe and out of their residence that was near the structure fire. Once the fire department was on the scene they assisted them and provided hospital blankets to relatives of the victims. They helped residents find guest lodging and helped block traffic. We should be extremely proud of our officers. They did not hesitate. They were ready and willing to put their own lives in danger to rescue victims from the burning house. Our officers are well trained and they handled the seriousness of the situation with great professionalism. They truly put the safety of others before their own. This truly is Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.

Seated: Kelly James, Mindy Callihan and Deb Yutzey
Standing: Vince Patrick, Paul Troiano and Greg Edsall

Paul Troiano – Pharmacy

A patient/employee nominated Paul.

I recently underwent extensive treatment to become pregnant and have been taking specific medication for a very long time. I had just recently discovered that everything had worked and I was finally pregnant. In February I ordered a refill of my medication and I called the Pharmacy to check on the status of my refill. I was told it would not be available until the next day. I was in tears. My pregnancy was dependent on this particular medication and I did not know the outcome if I went 2 days without the medication. After speaking to several people in the pharmacy I was desperate and made plans to drive to Maryland to obtain the medication. It was snowing outside and the forecast was for 10 inches on top of the 2.5 feet we already had. This added stress was not good for my condition. I received a telephone call from the Pharmacy Director, Paul Troiano. He was very understanding and extremely helpful. He apologized for the inconvenience and arranged to get my medication. In terms of patient care he was very customer focused and made me feel like I was indeed important enough to help. This was a prime example of “every patient, every time”. He obtained and delivered the medication to me at home, after driving in a horrible snowstorm. When he should have been already safely home and in his house for the evening, he was putting me, the patient first. He is a star employee and I cannot thank him enough for his compassion.

Kelly James – 6 Ashman

A coworker nominated Kelly.

In May we had an unstable patient admitted to 6 Ashman from PCU. As part of her job, Kelly had just spent hours with the patient in PCU and she had transported him to CT for scans. Once the patient was transferred to ICU, Kelly had to update the patient’s family. After Kelly’s shift ended, she spent three additional hours with the patient’s family. This was a very difficult case and the family was very upset. The three hours that Kelly spent was well above and beyond what was expected of her. The next day I had the opportunity to speak to the family. The patient’s daughter said that Kelly’s time and attention helped through a very difficult time. Not once did Kelly make them feel unimportant or rushed, even though she was working well past her shift. The family acknowledged that because of the stress that they were under, it might have appeared as though they were difficult and Kelly did a wonderful job dealing with them. She stated that the family had great respect and admiration for Kelly and the job she did. This type of dedication to the job of a critical care charge nurse is typical of Kelly and she exemplifies the CARING values. Kelly is truly committed to the vision of Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.

Vince Patrick – Security

A patient nominated Vince. This is Vince’s second Gold Star.

A patient called the hospital to commend Vince Patrick. The man and his wife had been at the hospital. The patient stated that he is somewhat disabled because he must either use a walker to wheelchair to get around. As they left the hospital, he wife was driving them down Franklin Street in their car. She hit a curb and blew out their tire. She pulled into the bank parking lot on the corner. Vince just happened to be walking down Franklin Street at the time. He observed the situation and stepped in to offer his assistance to them. Vince could have easily kept walking because this was not on the hospital campus and he obviously would have no way of knowing the two people were indeed patients of Memorial Medical Center. Vince graciously and kindly changed their flat tire. The patient stated that they are so grateful that Vince Patrick was walking by that day. They were most appreciative of his kind act and caring demeanor.

Louis Nazarak, Donald Hritz, Greg Edsall – Security

A coworker nominated the three men. This is Lou and Don’s third Gold Stars.

In December there was a tragic structure fire with possible entrapment in a residence behind hospital property. The Johnstown Police Department requested assistance. Upon arrival of our officers, they found fire and smoke coming from the front of the structure. Lou and Don went to the rear of the structure to see if they could make entry to assist any fire victims who may still be inside. Greg went to the right side of the structure to see if he could assist any victims who might be at the windows. Due to unsafe conditions, Lou and Don were unable to enter the structure. Greg had to retreat because of power lines that were catching fire. The officers made sure all resident physicians were safe and out of their residence that was near the structure fire. Once the fire department was on the scene they assisted them and provided hospital blankets to relatives of the victims. They helped residents find guest lodging and helped block traffic. We should be extremely proud of our officers. They did not hesitate. They were ready and willing to put their own lives in danger to rescue victims from the burning house. Our officers are well trained and they handled the seriousness of the situation with great professionalism. They truly put the safety of others before their own. This truly is Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.

Mindy Callihan – 10 Ashman

A patient nominated Mindy.

I was a patient on 10 Ashman and Mindy was my nurse. She was a very caring nurse and checked my condition regularly. The problem came when I was to be discharged on a Saturday. I did not have any money or checks with me and I needed some prescriptions filled before I went home. I was determined I was going home with or without the medications. Mindy wisely refused to complete my discharge until she knew I would have my medications. Mindy had to make quite a few phone calls to straighten this out for me. She finally contacted Martella’s Pharmacy and made arrangements for my medications to be delivered. They said I could pay for the pills when I got home. The important part of this story is that despite all the time she spent with me getting my prescription situation in order, she still took excellent care of her other patients. I also found out that when my meds arrived to the floor, there was a slip that needed signed – to guarantee payment would be made. Mindy took responsibility and signed her name as a promise that payment would be made. My co-pay was $57.69, but if my insurance had not covered this, it would have been almost $800. I was so impressed that she would sign this for me. She showed great compassion and caring. I hope that Mindy remains such a kind and caring nurse. You don’t see people as kind as Mindy. I can’t thank her enough.

BI-ANNUAL AWARD GOES TO:

Deb Yutzey – Home Health Meyersdale. Deb was recognized in March with a gold star for her kind act.

A coworker nominated Deb.

This past Christmas, Deb was experiencing her first Christmas since her Mom past away and her son was deployed to Iraq. Deb took this time to make the season special for a patient. One of our patients has advanced Multiple Sclerosis. She has 2 school age children and it is very difficult for her to get to see her children when they participate in school functions. Deb was aware the patient’s daughter would be participating in her school’s chorus concert and her Mom would not be able to go to the concert. Deb decided not only would she get the patient to the concert, but also she would make it a special night for the entire family. It is difficult to get the patient out of her home because she does not have a wheelchair that can easily fit into a car. There are no males to assist as her husband was killed in a tragic traffic accident several years ago. This has lead to financial burden too. Deb purchased new outfits for the patient and her children to wear to the concert. She took the family out to eat prior to the concert and she rented a wheelchair for the evening and borrowed a wheelchair van to transport the family to the concert. She took pictures of the family so they could save the memories. I recently spoke to the patient’s sister and she told me the family was so excited about their experience. One of the children commented that they “had never been to a fancy restaurant with a salad bar”. The patient herself wrote: “I want to thank you and your husband so much for what you did for us. It meant the world to have someone care as much as you guys did by taking your time to give to us. We are so grateful for what you did. My kids took a great loving to you and your husband. What meant a lot was how you cared and listened. We will never forget what you did.” At the busy time of Christmas Deb put their needs in front of her needs. She is a compassionate and caring individual and should be recognized with a Gold Star.

Ruth Moore – Pharmacy

A patient/employee nominated Ruth.

I was on a maternity leave without pay. During that time my daughter became very ill. She was hospitalized for six days and before discharge we had multiple prescriptions that needed filled. Not thinking, I asked the Pharmacy to put this on my payroll deduction plan. At some point somebody must have realized I was not getting paid while on LOA, and Ruth Moore called my home to see how we wanted to pay for the prescriptions. My mother answered the phone and spoke to Ruth. She explained my situation and told Ruth to mail an invoice to the house. One week later an envelope arrived in the mail from Ruth Moore. It contained an inspirational letter from Ruth. Also, Ruth paid for my daughter’s prescriptions. I’m a stranger to Ruth. She did not have to do this. Her kindness has touched our family during an extremely difficult time for us both emotionally and financially. It wasn’t just the monetary gift, but the emotional support in her kind letter. We can’t thank Ruth enough for her compassion. I’ve been told that this is typical for Ruth. She has been known to do this for other employees who find themselves in similar situations. She also has provided patients with prayer shawls while they are in the hospital. She frequently writes inspirational notes to many
hospital employees. Her words of encouragement are greatly appreciated by all the staff who receives her notes. Ruth consistently lives the CARING values of our organization and I hope we can recognize her for her kindness. 

Marianne Espey – Radiology

A coworker nominated her for a Gold Star.

A man and his son came to Lee Campus to pick up his wife. She was in Radiology having a test. She was a cancer patient and in a wheelchair. When the family left Radiology, the husband collapsed with a heart attack. The wife started to screamand in no time the lobby was filled with people wanting to help. The Rapid ResponseTeam and the West End Ambulance worked on this man and finally got a pulse. Marianne Espey, a Nuclear Medicine technologist was with the man’s wife throughthe entire ordeal. She stood by her and consoled and comforted and reassured her.Marianne is very kind and compassionate. When the ambulance crew was ready totransport the man, Marianne immediately announced that she would drive the wifeand son (who was mentally challenged) to the hospital. She promised to stay withthe family until they were settled in. The family owned a big, old late model truck.It didn’t stop Marianne. Assisting two handicap people into the truck, in the snowwas not easy but she did it and drove them safely to the ER. Marianne is a humbleperson who is quick to lend a helping hand. Marianne certainly lives the vision,“Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.”

Nancy Tyrrell – GSNCC

Nancy’s co-workers and staff nominated her.

Nancy is very devoted to her workplace and she takes pride in everything she does. Inher five years as administrator, she has gone above and beyond. She is always willingto jump in and help with anything needed to make the Nursing Care Center a betterplace. Here are some examples of how Nancy shows her dedication and lives theVision & Values of CHS.
•Yearly, Nancy along with her administrative team pulls together to scrub andsweep our basement along with reorganizing our equipment area and whennursing is in need of something she will bring supplies from the basement.
•Nancy scrubs the carpets in the lounge when help is needed getting it done.She always demonstrates what hard work is about.
•Resident’s families are one of our main customers. There was an incidentwhere a loved one’s clothing went missing after discharge. Nancy assured thefamily this would be taken care of by her personally. She went through every cart of clothing in our basement until she found the missing items. She thendrove them to the resident’s home.
•If a resident does not have clothing when they enter the NCC – or has misplacedhis/her belongings, Nancy will replace the items with her own money.
These are just a few of her generous acts. Nancy always finds the time to talk toresidents, family and staff – no matter what the situation or how busy she is. All are drawn to Nancy because of her bold and witty personality and winning smile. Nancycares about our organization and leads by example. That is why we are nominating herfor a Gold Star.

Deb Yutzey – Home Health Meyersdale

A coworker nominated Deb.

This past Christmas, Deb was experiencing her first Christmas since her Mom pastaway and her son was deployed to Iraq. Deb took this time to make the season specialfor a patient. One of our patients has advanced Multiple Sclerosis. She has 2 schoolage children and it is very difficult for her to get to see her children when theyparticipate in school functions. Deb was aware the patient’s daughter would beparticipating in her school’s chorus concert and her Mom would not be able to go to theconcert. Deb decided not only would she get the patient to the concert, but also shewould make it a special night for the entire family. It is difficult to get the patient out ofher home because she does not have a wheelchair that can easily fit into a car. There areno males to assist as her husband was killed in a tragic traffic accident several yearsago. This has lead to financial burden too. Deb purchased new outfits for the patientand her children to wear to the concert. She took the family out to eat prior to theconcert and she rented a wheelchair for the evening and borrowed a wheelchair van totransport the family to the concert. She took pictures of the family so they could savethe memories. I recently spoke to the patient’s sister and she told me the family was soexcited about their experience. One of the children commented that they “had neverbeen to a fancy restaurant with a salad bar”. The patient herself wrote: “I want to thankyou and your husband so much for what you did for us. It meant the world to havesomeone care as much as you guys did by taking your time to give to us. We are sograteful for what you did. My kids took a great loving to you and your husband. Whatmeant a lot was how you cared and listened. We will never forget what you did.” At thebusy time of Christmas Deb put their needs in front of her needs. She is a compassionateand caring individual and should be recognized with a Gold Star.

Mark Dellett – School of Nursing

Mark’s students nominated him.

In the School of Nursing, we have an excellent role model – that is Mr. Mark Dellet. He iscaring, compassionate, and extremely knowledgeable and encourages his students withevery interaction. Whether it is his role as Student Health Nurse, Faculty Advisor for SNAPor Instructor – Mr. Dellet displays excellence, professionalism and dedication to hisstudents, the school and the community. Mr. Dellet has donated his time in the past for thestudents to advocate community involvement for education and fund-raising for charitiesand health awareness. Mr. Dellet has organized numerous blood pressure screeningswhere information is disseminated about risks and prevention of hypertension, dietmodification and healthy living. He has established an annual healthy living challenge forstudents and faculty providing encouragement for exercise and adopting healthy life stylechanges. Monies raised from this challenge have been donated to the Johnstown FreeMedical Clinic. Mr. Dellet encourages participation in the annual holiday donation forNAMI and a car wash to raise money and awareness for The Food Allergy & AnaphylaxisNetwork. He is currently conducting a Cell Phone for Soldiers Fundraiser. Most recently,Mr. Dellet had us at the Galleria doing a blood pressure screening. About one-half hourinto the screening mall security notified us that a person had a cardiac arrest in a nearbydepartment store. Without hesitation, Mr. Dellet took charge and organized our efforts toresuscitate the elderly woman. The entire time, including the time after the paramedicsarrived, everybody looked to Mr. Dellet for guidance. Mr. Dellet received training as aparamedic in the city of Pittsburgh and he was able to advise members of the respondingambulance crew. He remained calm and thought clearly. Mr. Dellet’s actions enabled thiswoman to be kept alive until her family arrived at the hospital to be by her side. We feel Mr.Dellet went above and beyond what anyone could have ever asked of him. He is mostdeserving of a Gold Star and truly exemplifies, “Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.”

Brenda Gentile – GS4

A patient’s family nominated Brenda.

After our loved one was diagnosed with cancer, Brenda was the first nurse that he saw. During this terribly difficult time, she stayed comforting and strong to each and every one of us. Brenda showed such compassion, care and love to our beloved family member. But it wasn’t just him, no matter what any of us needed; she made sure that we were taken care of. We believe Brenda always went above and beyond for him and for us. As the time neared and we know our loved one was going to pass away, it took everything out of us. We were scared and sad – so many emotions but Brenda became our strength when we had none. Brenda was our family’s “Golden Angel”. We cannot thank Brenda enough for helping us through the worst time of our life. She is a very special person.

Sherri Smith – GS4

A coworker nominated Sherri.

I was working night shift and upon arrival at work I noted a few patients on the Palliative side were not doing well. Shortly before 11 p.m., one of the two struggling patients died while the second one was very close. Due to inclement weather conditions that evening, the patient’s family was unable to make the journey back to the hospital to be at her side. Our unit clerk, Sherri Smith, had already clocked out for the end of her shift but state that she could not bear leaving knowing that the patient was actively dying and that she would die alone. Sherri took off her coat, put her personal belongings aside and sat at the patient’s beside. She held the patient’s hand until she took her last breath. Sherri then stayed on to help the night shift by tearing the patient’s chart apart and coordinating the patient’s departure from the unit. Sherri did this after she worked a shift because of the goodness in her heart. I was touched and appreciated her compassion and selfless love of another. Thank you Sherri.

Rebecca Stiles – Patient Access

A coworker nominated Rebecca.

A patient was seen in the Memorial Medical Center ER and she was referred to a local specialist because of a particular condition. Rebecca called the doctor’s office to make an appointment for the patient. When she talked to the office staff they told her they did not take the patient’s means of payment, the Access Card and she would have to make arrangements to pay for services. The patient and her mother were very upset because the mother did not have the money to pay for the patient to be seen by the specialist. Rebecca was moved by their situation and showing considerate compassion, she called the doctor’s office back and gave them her credit card number so she could pay for the patient to see this doctor. Rebecca certainly did not have to do this. She could have let the patient and her Mother find another specialist but rather she lived the CARING values of Conemaugh and showed compassion and put the patient first. Thank you Rebecca.

Barb Bartkovich – Lee ASC

Barb’s staff nominated her for a Gold Star.

I would like to nominate Barb for a gold star. I previously worked in ASU at the main campus. In June 2008 our area was closed and we moved to the Lee Campus. Change is always scary and this was an emotional time for the staff. But, Barb was there. She came when we were packing boxes and she offered us support and hugs. She recognized that we were emotional and she gave us a shoulder to cry on. She bought us pizza and was tremendous in helping us transition to the Lee Campus. When we arrived she had a party for us. She lent her ear and made each and every one of us feel comfortable and welcome. Recently we had 2 employees with family members who were diagnosed with life threatening illnesses. Both were facing financial hardships. In both instances, Barb opened her wallet to help these employees. Last year one of our staff members became critically ill. Barb made it possible for her to return to work a few hours a pay period. This made a difference in the employee’s emotional well-being. She was able to work a few hours a week until finally her illness forced her from her job. She eventually passed away but Barb was there to help us through the funeral and our grief. She even made sure all the previous main campus staff was able to attend the funeral. She also sat right beside us. This made a difference to all of us. Barb has to be one of the best bosses ever. She is a good leader and is fair and giving. We are celebrating Barb’s birthday on November 18 and we would like to present her with a Gold Star so she knows just how much she means to us!

Lisa Gusmerotti – 9 Ashman

A coworker nominated Lisa.

We were caring for a patient who had belly surgery and became very sick afterwards. She had to be hospitalized longer than expected and subsequently became very depressed. The patient’s birthday occurred during her stay in the hospital. Lisa went to the Little Shop and Martella’s and purchased birthday presents, balloons and ordered a small cake. She had all the staff sign the card and we went in and sang Happy Birthday to cheer her up. The patient was extremely touched. She did get better and went home for the holidays. Lisa’s actions clearly demonstrate our commitments to always put the patient first and compassion.

Tracy Yoder – OB

Brian Dukery – ECD

A coworker nominated both Tracy & Brian.

Without the incredible efforts of Tracy Yoder & Brian Dukery, this year’s Breast Cancer Awareness Health Fair would not have happened. Preparation for this event is very stressful. The day before the event Brian came to my office and stated words you do not want to hear prior to an event of this magnitude, “we have a problem”. Tables and chairs had been disappearing for various events and there were not enough anywhere to support the fair in the atrium. Tracy Yoder, secretary for Women/Child Services heard about the problem and quickly thought of a possible solution. She said she would call her church – St. Andrew’s. She called the church and asked if we could borrow tables from the school/church for the event. They graciously agreed to allow us to use the tables. On the morning of the event, Brian & Tracy personally worked together to hammer out the details for picking up the tables and getting them set up in the Atrium. Because of their extraordinary efforts at the last minute we had enough tables and everything fell into place for the event. The event was a success for our employees and the community. Without Brian & Tracy coming to the rescue, things could have been a disaster. Behind the scenes work for an event like this can be stressful and fun. But team members pulling together like this is what Conemaugh and its Values are all about. Both Tracy & Brian did not have to take the extra steps, but they did. They are committed to Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.

Karen Jenkins – GSNCC

Coworkers nominated Karen.

Karen constantly goes above and beyond in her daily work. For example, due to health problems, one family member could no longer do his elderly wife’s laundry. He was afraid to send his wife’s clothing to the laundry because he was worried about items becoming lost or damaged. Karen volunteered to do his wife’s laundry for him. This man was extremely thankful for Karen’s compassion and concern.

We have another patient who has a terminal illness. He has cravings for fast food. Karen goes once a week to the fast food restaurant of his choice and brings him back the food he is craving. She does this with her own money, never expecting to be repaid.

Karen gives her telephone number to all the families and residents and tells them to call her for anything they need. She strives to provide exceptional care to all. She constantly demonstrates Excellence. Every Patient (and family!). Every Time.

Bob & Jeannie Phillips – OR

A coworker nominated Bob & Jeannie.

Bob & Jeannie Phillips work in our OR. One day while walking to their car after work, they noticed two elderly women walking with canes on the opposite side of Franklin Street. The women were stepping off of the sidewalk onto the street when one of them fell. Her head hit the street with such force that witnesses said you could hear it hit. Bob & Jeannie immediately ran to their assistance. Bob stopped traffic while Jeannie saw to the woman’s immediate needs. She then used her cell phone to call 911. Both Bob & Jeannie stayed with the women until an ambulance arrived. Jeannie gathered the woman’s belongings and gave them to her friend. Jeannie observed that the friend had a difficult time walking and anticipated that she may need assistance to follow her friend to the ER. Jeannie talked to the ambulance driver and was able to have them escort the lady to the ER. Jeannie helped her into the ambulance. In my opinion, Bob & Jeannie deserve special recognition. Many people on their way home from work could have just ignored the incident thinking “somebody else” will step up to help. This is a true example of the compassion shown by our employees at Memorial Medical Center and demonstrates Excellence. Every Patient. Every Time.