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Reflections

Guardian Award, 2003

Banner Baywood Heart Hospital has exceptional people. Patients know it, volunteers know it, and the community knows it. Caregivers and physicians are comfortable practicing at the Heart Hospital because of the quality and compassion of the staff that surround them. I have felt privileged to be a part of this uniquely focused group from the day I started, in March of 2001. And I was amazed and overjoyed to be included with the wonderful group of co-workers and friends that were nominated for the 2003 Guardian Award.

The night the award was given, on the hospital's third anniversary, was memorable in so many ways. The whole event was so beautifully planned and carried out, from start to finish. The music, the words spoken by Kathy Bollinger and Dave Kaubisch, and the lovely video all contributed to an inspirational feel. Sitting with the other nominees and meeting their families was very special, because it was so much fun to see many of my favorite people basking in the glow of their loved ones' pride.

When Kathy made the announcement that I was the Guardian for 2003, I saw that same pride in the faces of my family. It was the greatest gift of all to be honored in this way in the presence of my family. They have all expressed being moved by the story of Ann DenHerder's life. I doubt that there was anyone present that night who was not moved to strive for wisdom, warmth, strength, integrity and gentleness in their own lives.

This award really feels like a milestone in my life. When I came to the Heart Hospital, I had already worked for many years in recruitment and employee relations. Although I have always enjoyed my work, I have rarely felt closely connected to the hospital's primary mission. I believed this was a sacrifice that was inevitable when I made the difficult decision to leave bedside care. I don't feel that way anymore. Receiving the Guardian award, and having others see in me the qualities for which Ann DenHerder is remembered has had a big impact for me. I can see that I have been able to influence the care that our patient's receive every day, by selecting and guiding our employees. I often hear people say great things about Banner Baywood Heart Hospital employees. I now understand that I have had a hand in making that happen, and I couldn't be more grateful or more proud of that opportunity and what has come from it.

Deb Ricketts received the first Guardian Award in 2002. I believe she would join me in saying that although we both share the distinction of winning the award, we are blessed to be surrounded by people who demonstrate wisdom, warmth, strength, integrity and gentleness every day.

Lois Roorda, Recruiter
Human Resources