Mary Rose STILL loves her job
Last year we told you about Mary Rose and her passionate care of residents at the Walter B. Crook Nursing facility, which is part of the North Sunflower Medical Center Family. That blog – “Mary Rose Loves Her Job!” – was recently honored with an Aster Award.
Aster Awards are part of an elite competition dedicated to recognizing the most talented healthcare marketing professions for outstanding excellence in advertising, marketing and communications.
We were honored to receive multiple awards in 2020. But what really made the recognition special was that the Mary Rose blog received a Gold award.
Mary is one of the hardworking professionals on our team, and we share their stories because we know that they make a difference every day. Mary was incredibly busy even before the pandemic. She told us last year, “I have a smile on my face as soon as I walk in the door.’’
Changes with COVID-19
She still has that smile, but Mary said this week that the changes with COVID-19 have made everything different at Walter B. Crook, a 60-bed facility with only private rooms.
“This is very challenging every day,’’ she said.
Her residents must now remain in their rooms, but staff are creative in keeping them active and engaged, Mary said. Residents play games and activities while sitting in their doorways. Bingo is popular.
Because the residents cannot have visitors, Mary encourages visits through the glass windows. She’s also using technology to connect residents through virtual calls.
“It’s heartbreaking to watch them have to see their loved ones through the window. They are wanting hugs. They are wanting kisses,’’ Mary said.
Mary has never been shy about letting the residents know she cares about them. Now that personal connection is critical.
“You take up more time talking with them and visiting with them,’’ she said. “You have your moments where you just wish you could change things for them. They are my family.’’
Safety, of course, is the top concern at NSMC and Walter B. Crook. Mary said residents and staff have been through several rounds of virus testing. Any staff member with health concerns is immediately sent for testing and quarantined until they are cleared.
But even with the virus and the restrictions, Mary tells us, “I wouldn’t have it any other way. I love it here, staff wise and resident wise.’’
“It’s a great place to be,’’ she said.
2020 Aster Awards
We know the care and service provided at NSMC is superior, but we appreciate the national recognition in programs like the Aster Awards, judged by a diverse panel of industry experts. Here’s a rundown of our 2020 Aster Awards:
- Blogs: Gold, Mary Rose Loves Her JOB!
- Special Events: Silver, P.R.O.M. Promise – Please Return on Monday
- Billboard Design: Bronze, 3D Mammography
- Logo Design/Letterhead: Silver, CCM – Chronic Care Management
- Total Advertising Campaigns: Silver, 3D Mammography
- Miscellaneous: Silver, Dancing Through The Decades