Diana Elmore & Susan Grypuik
Licensed Practical Nurses
Glenwood Care Centre and Cheam Village
Agassiz
Ann Marie Leijen, CEO, sent in the following nomination for Diana and Susan:
I made the decision to nominate both Diana and Susan together because they have worked at both Glenwood and Cheam Village for over 15 years – Diana since 1993 and Susan since 1999 – as Licensed Practical Nurses. And it is with heartfelt sincerity that I say every single day that Susan and Diana come to work they make a positive difference in our Residents’ lives. Both work as Team Leaders, Diana at Glenwood and Susan at Cheam, and in this role, provide support, coaching, clinical expertise to our nursing and care aide staff while actively working providing exemplary care.
Their commitment to quality has allowed our care homes to continuously improve the care we provide. Specifically, they were both instrumental leading a significant culture change in our homes that reduced the rate of antipsychotics by 80%. To ensure that improvements are sustained we provide care differently now from individual music therapy, aromatherapy and even art therapy.
I have seen both Susan and Diana deal with challenging behaviours in a kind and gentle manner and then taking the time to teach their colleagues how to also provide the same excellent care. Today our staff provide care in a way that meet each Resident’s individual needs – and in large part that is due to the positive example that Susan and Diana bring to work with them everyday.
When I brought forward the “Call for Nominations”, our Director of Care, Elsie Duncan brought forward Susan and Diana – stating that both equally deserved to be recognized for their commitment to ensuring each resident has the best possible quality of life. Over the years, we have received many notes, cards and letters from families that have specifically mentioned Diana or Susan by name – mentioning their kindness and excellent care skills.
On a personal note, I do not believe that as an organisation we would have grown and changed in such a positive way over the years without them. In my opinion they have gone “above and beyond” and I am truly grateful for their dedication, professionalism and kindness they have always shown.
Diana and Susan sent us this message upon learning of their nomination: “We feel very honored by this nomination. We both feel privileged to work for an organization that allows us to provide excellent care to our residents, by promoting, encouraging, and supporting initiatives making each day the best day possible. Thank you!”
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Click here to read others who have received 2017 BC Care Awards recognition.
