Video

Carolyn receiving her 2011 Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award from Ms. Shirley Bealer

Ms. Shirley Bealer, Medical Director of Overton Brooks Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Left) had the pleasure of presenting Carolyn Green (Right) with her Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award.

With her proud granddaughter

Carolyn’s family couldn’t be any prouder of her.  Here she is pictured with her granddaughter who came out to celebrate with her.

Interview with NBC affiliate KTAL

The local television network came out to interview Carolyn.  They were interested in finding out more about her work with the Overton Brooks VAMC’s Healthcare for Homeless Veterans Program.

Colleagues and family came out to celebrate Carolyn's award

Carolyn’s colleagues and family were excited to celebrate her recognition.

Working the Overton Brooks VAMC's Homeless Veterans Program

“I like my work because  it gives me the chance to help others that are vulnerable and who need assistance in getting their life back on track.  I have the privilege of providing case management and care coordination to homeless Veterans and it is the most rewarding job that I have ever had.”

“Jessica knows where she needs to go and always gets there.  We do not expect new graduate nurses to be at this level of leadership, especially at her age”, explained Lee Passow, Director of ICU/ OCU and Jessica’s nominator.

“I was very touched to know that what I do everyday in my caring for my patients really matters.  Sometimes when you are just doing your job you do not realized what an impact that you are making on a patient’s or family’s life, but to hear it read to you in the fashion that it was written really makes you realize that what you do for patients and families does make a difference.”

As Jennifer listens, Wendell Mobley, Director of Cherokee Uniforms’ Charitable and Scholarship Programs welcomes her into the group of elite healthcare professionals that form the Cherokee family.

After submitting a very compelling nomination for Jennifer, Christina Cruso-Smith (left), colleague, friend and nominator congratulates Jennifer for being recognized with the award.

“I knew right away and began to cry.  Many times you do things not expecting any recognition. So I was stunned. I do what I love and I work hard becasue I love it.”

Shakira, who was “humbled just to be nominated”, poses with Colleen Rodriguez (left) and Christina Mesa (far right).

After being notified of her award status, Shakira (right) and Colleen Rodriguez (left) embrace.  According to Shakira, “she (Colleen) started me on this journey and believed in my ability to do it.  She has been forever encouraging”.

After having the surprise of her life, Jessica stated, “when I saw my parents, my brother, and my friends, I felt very overwhelmed and full of gratitude.”

According to Jessica, “my best tool in nursing would be the great team of nurses that I work with. Nursing is definitely a team effort and you can’t do everything by yourself.” Here she is pictured with some of those colleagues and her mentor who came out to surprise her.

A very humbled and excited Jessica Estep receives her Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award trophy!

Jessica listens as Wendell Mobley reads her award letter (with Don Lorack, CEO, Anaheim Regional Medical Center and Lee Passow, ICU/ COU Director, Anaheim Regional Medical Center).

Lisa receives her Inspired Comfort award from Mary Lou Araneo, VP for Institutional Advancement (right) at Suffolk County Community College, Sayville Center.

An emotional Lisa shies away from cameras as she learns that she has been named a Grand Prize Winner in the 2011 Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award!

Mary Lou Araneo, Vice President for Institutional Advancement (right) congratulates Lisa Quinones as she learns that she is a 2011 Cherokee Inspired Comfort Award Recipient.

Lisa Quinones receives support from the staff at Suffolk County Community College, Sayville Center.

Mark Nix, President & CEO Infirmary Health (left), congratulates Shannon Davidson.

Amanda McLain (left), who nominated Shannon for her selfless volunteer work, gives Shannon a congratulatory hug.

Suzanne Bird, CNO (left), pins Shannon while her mother and husband watch.

From left to right: Joe Stough, Hospital Administrator, Ashley Carwille, RN, Amanda McLain, RN, Shannon Davidson, Kim Diegan, RN, Suzanne Bird, CNO, Kelley Hicks, RN.