Maine Ombudsman Program and First Lady LePage honor caregiver

AUGUSTA — Brenda Withers, CNA of Greenville and an employee of the Hibbard Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dover-Foxcroft, recently received the Maine Ombudsman Program 2016 Excellence in Long Term Care Award during a recognition ceremony at the Blaine House.

Contributed photo

HONORED CNA’S — Hibbard Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center CNAs Patricia Whitman, left, and Brenda Withers both were recently recognized with caregiving honors in Augusta. Whitman was presented with the Maine Health Care Association 2016 Celebrating Excellence in Caregiving Award and Withers received the Maine Ombudsman Program 2016 Excellence in Long Term Care Award.

The award, presented by Maine First Lady Ann LePage, is given annually to long-term care employees across the state who have consistently exemplified a commendable level of caregiving, dedication and professionalism in caring for Maine’s elderly and disabled citizens living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Withers was one of 30 caregivers who received the honor this year. She exemplifies all the qualities the Hibbard Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center aspires for its employees to have. Withers has proven herself to be a leader and motivator to her coworkers as well as a loving and thoughtful caregiver to residents.

A family member shared, “All of Mom’s caregivers are good but one stands out among them. Brenda Withers has been with Mom since she arrived at Hibbard’s. She is so kind, patient and loving to Mom, and our family appreciates her so much! Brenda is always there for me too. She has laughed with me as well as given me a shoulder to cry on when I needed a hug.”

The Excellence in Long Term Care Award is designed to thank and honor Maine’s long-term care employees who spend their days and nights caring for others. To be considered, nominees must meet certain criteria, including consistent quality of caregiving, attention to residents’ rights, leadership among peers and ability to inspire others through example. Nominations were submitted from across the state and winners were selected by an independent panel of judges with long-term care expertise.