Annual Meeting Awards
March 8, 2010

5 YEAR AWARDS

ADMINISTRATION:

 

Briane Brnca, Community Liaison

As a substitute teacher, Briane could not get the work hours she needed.  She made the decision in 2005 to use her excellent verbal skills and positive, energetic disposition to apply for the Community Liaison position in the Banning office.  Briane has natural marketing skills and has done an excellent job with all of her accounts.  

 

Anna Spencer, Administrative Support Supervisor

As the Administrative Support Supervisor, Anna supports the Board of Directors, CEO, CFO, and Vice President of Clinical Operations.   She can always be depended on to keep the department organized, up-to-date, and on schedule.  She is appreciated by all and enables the Administrative team to function at its maximum capability.

 

Stephanie Sullivan, Graphic Design Specialist

Stephanie designs promotional pieces that set the VNAIC apart from the competition.  She is a perfectionist, and her work proves it.  Last year the graphic design staff created over 1,000 specially designed pieces for the business development team.  With Stephanie’s expertise, she will continue to set us apart from the pack. 

 

Jalene Wells, Community Liaison

Jalene is an experienced Social Worker, which she uses to great advantage in her role as a Community Liaison.  Jalene believes in the team approach and works very hard to partner with the VA Hospital.  Over these last 5 years, VNAIC referrals from the VA have doubled, and Jalene has become an adjunct to their team. 

 

BANNING HOSPICE:

 

Louis Atwell, Social Worker

Louis came to us after retiring from Riverside County Regional Medical Center where he worked for 30 years.  So much for retirement!  Louis is very patient and loves to solve problems.  He enjoys networking and assisting other Social Workers with financial and reimbursement issues.  He is an expert in Medicare and MediCal and loves a difficult case. 

Martha Garcia, CHHA

 

Martha loves her work, her team, and her patients.  She has described end-of-life care as “very spiritual” work.  In September of 2009 she passed an extensive exam to become a Certified Hospice and Palliative Care Nursing Assistant. 

 

Cathie Norton, RN, Case Manager

 

Cathie was very touched by the expert and compassionate
end-of-life care her mother received as a Banning Hospice patient and could see herself being part of this meaningful work.  She has worked as a Liaison, Clinical Educator, and now a Hospice Case Manager. 

 

Marie Schofer, CHHA

 

Marie came to VNAIC fresh out of CNA/HHA training.  She has continued as a full time employee and a full time student.  Marie is currently working on her BS degree in kinesiology with a minor in French.  Her goal is to become an RN.  Marie loves taking care of her patients and is very focused and goal oriented. 

 

 

BARSTOW HOME HEALTH:

 

Helen Benson, Physical Therapy Assistant

  

Helen (Hanna) is well known in the area.  She works well with the Physical Therapy and home health teams.  She has a tender touch with patients but still helps them achieve their best outcome possible.  She displays a good attitude and positive approach and is someone that can be counted on in a pinch. 

 

Kim Holmgren, RN, Case Manager

 

Kim is friendly and well thought of by her patients and peers.  She is eager to learn new things and shares educational tips with the other nurses in the Barstow branch.  She is always up for a new task or responsibility.  Kim is dedicated to the patients in the Barstow area, often going out of her way for them.  

 

Donna Mass, Occupational Therapy Assistant

 

Donna works primarily with the Selpa program and is very knowledgeable, friendly, and comprehensive in her care for the students. 

She is often requested by name to assist students, due to her concern, compassion, and care.  She has shared her insights with the Selpa team and has attended Camp Erin, helping with the childrens’ grief therapy.

 

 

BARSTOW HOSPICE:

 

Jim Maher, Social Worker

 

Jim started as a Per Diem employee for both Home Health and Hospice, and this last year accepted a full time position in Hospice.  Jim also works with the Victorville Mourning Star Center staff helping bereaved children.  Jim is a gentle and kind person and has spent most of his life helping others whenever he can.  

 

Dr. Kevin Smith, Medical Director

 

Dr. Smith oversees the medical needs of the Hospice patients as well as managing a full time practice in the Barstow area. 
Dr. Smith is a kind and soft spoken man who truly cares for the welfare of his patients.  The VNAIC is truly fortunate to have such a dedicated man working with the team to meet the needs of the Barstow Hospice patients.

 

 

MURRIETA HOME HEALTH:

 

Luisa Fauni, RN

 

Luisa is a valuable member of the Murrieta team.  She is willing and able to cover any area on the days she works.  Luisa works well with all members of the teams.  She takes the time with her patients and is a patient advocate.  

 

Denise Hanten, Occupational Therapist

 

Denise covers all areas of the Murrieta office.  She is a team player and works with the rehab staff to make sure that the patients’ goals are met.  She is a very valuable member of the team and is very much appreciated.

 

 

MURRIETA HOSPICE:

 

 

Lina Alvarez, CHHA

 

Lina is a valued employee and is respected by all her peers.  She is greatly appreciated by her patients and families.  Lina is an asset to the team as she brings her years of experience and skills to the job.  The office receives many compliments from patients, families, and community facilities regarding her kindness and compassion.

 

Maria Baylard, CHHA

 

Maria is a role model for other home health aides and is respected by her co-workers.  She goes above and beyond to bring comfort to her patients.  Maria is extremely conscientious and caring.  She is always willing to accept the most difficult and challenging cases. 

 

Kimberly Fenior, RN

 

Kimberly brings with her many years of Hospice and E.R. experience.  She is an end of life expert and is always willing to share her expertise.  She is well respected and valued by patients, families and peers.  Kimberly never hesitates to assist with clinical labs, orientation of new staff, facility in-services, and Light Up A Life.  

 

 

PALM DESERT HOME HEALTH:

 

Thomas Fuller, RN, Case Manager

 

Thom came to the VNA with many years of nursing experience and is a strong member of the team.  He shares his warm smile and compassionate disposition every day with his patients and
co-workers.

 

Margaret Hart, Insurance Utilization Coordinator

 

Margaret was first hired as a file supply clerk in the Palm Desert branch.  Several years later, she was transferred to the IUC department where she handles insurance authorizations.  Margaret is a very dedicated and detailed oriented employee.

 

Sandra Meza, Scheduling Coordinator

 

Sandra first started as a file clerk in the Palm Desert branch.  She later transferred to Clinical Systems for 3 years and then recently returned to the branch as a scheduler.  Sandra’s knowledge and calm demeanor make her a joy to have in the office.

 

Michael Nicolette, Scheduling Coordinator

 

Michael came to VNAIC from Central Coast VNA, and the branch hasn’t been the same since.  He manages to schedule patients, interface with clinical staff, and maintain a positive attitude.  Michael’s skills, efficiency, and organization make him an outstanding scheduler. 

 

Emily Wingrove, Branch Receptionist

 

Emily does a fantastic job as the receptionist in the Palm Desert branch.  Emily handles many calls every day and manages to do so with efficiency and with a smile in her voice. She is great at
multi-tasking at the front desk.

 

 

 

PALM DESERT HOSPICE:

 

 

Liz Gayton, RN, Case Manager

 

Liz is an excellent Case Manager.  She is very diligent in her work habits and likes the challenge of working with high maintenance patients and families.  She and her team get them settled down quickly, and things usually run like clockwork.     

 

Jill Huettner, RN

 

Families and patients alike are very comfortable with Jill due to the professionalism she exudes as well as her kind, gentle ways.  Recently, Jill stepped out of her comfort level to be in a local commercial for our Hospice Program. 

 

Krys Johnson, Bereavement Coordinator

 

Krys is a “behind the scenes” kind of gal.  She doesn’t need to be in the spotlight but is happy to assist those that are.  This past year she was nominated by a community member for the Jefferson Award which honors people who serve the community in some capacity.  Her families rely on her expertise and nurturing spirit.

 

Dr. John Prekezes, Medical Director

 

Dr. Prekezes has really made a difference to the Palm Desert Hospice team.  He is very kind and compassionate towards patients and their families.  In addition to taking care of VNAIC patients and managing his busy medical office, Dr. Prekezes became Board Certified in Hospice and Palliative Care this past year. 

 

Kathryn Reeves, RN

 

This nurse is retired??  Well, maybe she retired from a full time career, but she is very busy admitting patients to hospice 2-3 days per week.  Kate came to VNAIC with her CHPN, and she is a parish nurse as well.  Last year she received special recognition from the Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce for her Hospice care. 

 

Pamela Rockwell, RN

 

Pam has a strong desire to learn and try new things.  She sets goals for herself and then goes after them with gusto.  Her latest achievement was to obtain her CHPN this past September.  She has also become very proficient with symptom management and is often a resource for the other team members. 

 

Marla Werner, RN, Hospice Manager

 

Marla has been a manager for many years.  Prior to coming to VNAIC, she worked as a manager in Home Health for Tenet Healthcare.  Marla oversees the clinical aspects of the Palm Desert Hospice program.  She is very proactive on the patients’ behalf and is always looking for better ways to manage patient care. 

 

Joyce White, Facility Liaison

 

Joyce is known throughout our valley as “everyone’s” friend.  She also happens to be a terrific Social Worker and Marketer.   She has many irons in the fire and is always ready with a new idea or strategy to try.  She recently became a liaison to build hospice business in SNF’s. 

 

 

RIVERSIDE HOME HEALTH:

 

Gretchen  Slater-Beard, Physical Therapy Assistant

 

Gretchen is an asset to the rehab team.  She works well with the Physical Therapists, communicating about her patients making sure their goals are met.  Her patients and co-workers love and respect her.  

 

Brenda Kelly, RN

 

Brenda is an RN with a specialty in mental health. As a Mental Health Nurse, she is able to work with patients who have a mental health diagnosis as well as consult with other staff members.  Her help and expertise is greatly appreciated.

 

Belinda Butler, RN, Case Manager

 

Belinda is well liked and respected by her peers.  She is always willing to help and has even worked on her days off.  She is appreciated and is an asset to the Riverside branch.

 

Laurie Lambert, Scheduling Coordinator

 

Laurie endured being the first office to go up on computerized scheduling, helping to work out the kinks and bugs.  The pride she takes in her work is demonstrated by the relationships she has made with the clinicians on her team.  The clinicians are confident in Laurie’s ability to handle the daily responsibilities of a scheduler. 

 

 

 

RIVERSIDE HOSPICE:

 

Irene Chavez, CHHA

 

Irene is very shy and quiet, yet when there is a need, she is always willing to help.  She has a special place in her heart for those who are at the end of their lives, and she is very loving and compassionate.  Her patients and caregivers say she is their angel.  Currently Irene is working full time and also going to school to get her LVN license.  

 

Maria Rivas, LVN, Intake Coordinator

 

Maria was a field LVN, and it was soon recognized that she possessed a natural ability to guide her team.  A lot of people don’t know this about Maria, but she has a Bachelor’s degree in Education and is close to achieving her Master’s degree.  She has also become a CPR instructor.  

 

Cynthia McGrath, LVN

 

Cindy has a special gift; she is able to touch the hearts of those difficult, stubborn, ornery patients, and as we all know, once they let you into their hearts, there’s no letting go.  She is also part of the wound team and is involved with raising money for the hardship fund.  She truly has a heart of gold.

 

 

VICTORVILLE HOME HEALTH:

 

Laura Arnold, RN, Case Manager

 

Laura is friendly and well thought of for her quick mind and great follow through.  She likes to learn new things and share them with others.  She enjoys educating the patients and caregivers and is a strong resource for other nurses.  Her caring and commitment is obvious to one and all.

 

Terry Helin, Occupational Therapy Assistant – Selpa

 

Terry provides therapeutic interventions for special needs students in the school setting.  She is compassionate, gentle, and has a calm approach.  She works well with the supervising therapist and team.  She is able to take on additional cases as needed, but doesn’t overlook detail or rush through treatment.  

 

Renae Leclaire, CHHA

 

Renae provides tender loving care and physical comfort to her patients and is consistent, timely, and diligent in her work.  She will often assist her patients with little “extras”, seeing to their needs, remembering special occasions, and just being available to really listen to them.  She is often complimented by the patients for her care and compassion.

 

Toni Weeden, Point of Care Technician

 

Toni is the perfect person for this position.  She pays attention to detail and performs the numerous computer tasks quickly and timely.  She assists staff with questions, reports, and coordination of the patients.  She has a remarkable positive outlook, and when you give her a task, you know it will be done thoroughly and correctly.  

 

 

 

VICTORVILLE HOSPICE:

 

Vicky Cornett, LVN

 

Vicky works well with her team of RN Case Managers and Social Workers.  She always has a kind word and gentle laugh to make the day go well.  Her team depends on her to ensure that the patient’s needs are met and that all details are completed.  She may be quiet, but is really missed when she is gone.

 

Dr. John Hawes, Medical Director

 

Dr. Hawes oversees the care of all Victorville Hospice patients and sees on average 60-70 patients a month.  He is very caring and personable, taking time with each patient to address their needs and ensure that the patient has maximum symptom management.  Dr. Hawes has a great sense of humor which brings life to the team.  

 

Gemma Malinski, CHHA

 

Gemma is petite but mighty.  She is frequently requested by patients and families and always does an exceptional job with her care.  Gemma is very knowledgeable and is counted on by her nursing team to alert them to any changes she sees in her patients. However, it is Gemma’s smile that comforts our families and brightens our office the most.

  

Arnel Randle, Social Work Assistant

 

Arnel is the perfect combination of  “street smarts” and heart.  She takes that extra time to help patients and families with needed tasks, without making them dependent on her.  She can get to the root of a problem in no time at all and gets everyone involved working on the appropriate solution.  She is a master at balancing compassion with assertiveness.  

 

Rebecca Rodriguez, RN

 

Rebecca (Becca) was originally hired as an LVN but has been completing her education towards her RN.  In the summer of 2009 she completed her degree and passed her RN boards.  Becca is very skilled at Hospice care and has made the transition to RN Admissions nurse with ease.  

 

Barry Stever, Chaplain

 

Barry works daily to meet the spiritual needs of Hospice patients and their families.  He especially likes to visit veterans, as he is one himself.  You can always count on Barry for an interesting or funny story or just for a laugh in general.  He’s always a good sport even if the joke’s on him.  Barry is definitely a Chaplain with a Hospice Heart.

 

Judy Witte, RN, Case Manager

 

Judy covers a very rural area, making getting to her patients difficult at times, to say the least.  She has many years of hospice experience and enjoys sharing that with new staff and students.  She takes great pride in her job and works well with her team, making sure her patients’ needs are met.  

 

 

 

YUCCA VALLEY HOME HEALTH:

 

Terrie Alumbaugh, RN, Case Manager

 

Terrie is very dedicated to her patients.  Whenever she encounters a new situation, she makes sure that she becomes an “expert” with that situation in order to better serve the patient.  Terrie is well liked by her co-workers, has a good sense of humor, and is always willing to lend a hand to her team. 

 

 

 

YUCCA VALLEY HOSPICE:

 

Brenda Ackley, CHHA

 

Lucille (Brenda) came to us on the advice of one of our Hospice RN's.  She had promised to care for an elderly lady until her death.  She met that goal, and she brought her competent "Hospice Heart" to the team.  Brenda is a "Can Do" kind of person, and that's why she was the Agency's 2005 “Yes, I Can” Award Recipient.

 

Syrena Johnston, LVN, Intake Coordinator

 

Syrena is a skilled and competent intake nurse who always goes the extra mile to get patients’ admission orders for Hospice and a nurse out in a timely manner.  Syrena became a nurse solely to become a hospice nurse through an experience she had while her father was receiving hospice care.

 

Betty Young, Hospice Clerk/Receptionist

The moment the phone rings at Yucca Valley Hospice, Betty answers with a smile and a "Can Do" attitude.  Many times the patients and families are in a bit of a panic, and Betty's friendly, calm, and competent demeanor lets the caller know that they will be taken care of.  She is a “Jill of all trades” at the front desk.