Guardian Award

In thinking what it means to me to be the first recipient of the Guardian Award, I had to take time to sort my thoughts and emotions out.

When thinking what responsibilities a Guardian is suppose to fulfill, my thoughts went immediately to my son Justin. I thought of what it is I have attempted to provide him through his 21 years of growing up. These words came to mind. Protector, caretaker, nurturer and being a teacher of the necessary skills for what life hands you.

Receiving the first "Guardian Award" for Lutheran Heart Hospital was an incredible honor. For me personally it was a lifetime achievement award. I have strived throughout my nursing career to walk what I believe which is respect, believe in people and honesty.

I feel that when you believe in something, you need to devote 100% to its success. I've learned the most important skill you can acquire is to listen to people! My patients have taught me how valuable listening can be.

When my name was called as being the recipient for the Guardian Award, I was truly in a state of shock. In my 29 years of nursing, I have never received an honor as prestigious as this one. It touched my heart more than people realize. It was especially humbling when I discovered the Directos of Lutheran Heart were interviewed and asked to look at specific criteria and nominate who they felt met that criteria. I was not aware they had observed the work I had done and my daily interactions while at work. I value the opinions of the Directos in the everyday working of Lutheran Heart and therefore their decision was exceptionally meaningful to me.

It also stirred a lot of emotion in me knowing that with the encouragement of his grandson, James Reeb, Mr. Lee relearned sculpting post stroke. My mother and father-in-law are also stroke survivors. I was amazed when I learned of Carol DenHerder nd her daughter Kristen's decision to give a generous donation to fund the creating of the bronze sculpture in front of Lutheran Heart Hospital. This was in memory of their daughter and sister, Ann, who was obviously very dear to their heart. What a giving heart they have! The wonderful bonus is I have a beautiful bronze sculpture of my own to have in my home which constantly reminds me of the celebration of November 1, 2002.

Debbie Ricketts, Charge Nurse
Telemetry, Lutheran Heart Hospital

To read more about the Guardian Program at Banner Baywood Heart Hospital, click here.