May 18, 2010

RVH celebrates long-term commitment at annual service awards

An evening of fun, laughs and warm spirits filled half of the ice pad surface at Ma-Te-Way Activity Centre on Thursday, May 13 as staff, physicians and volunteers of Renfrew Victoria Hospital gathered to celebrate their life at work.

The 14th annual employee recognition banquet had a hockey theme with replica Stanley Cups dotting the centre of each table, hockey paraphernalia everywhere and the Hockey Night in Canada theme song playing in the background.

Wearing a Renfrew Millionaires sweatshirt, CEO Randy Penney welcomed the crowd of more than 100 people, expressing how thankful and proud he was of the staff for their loyalty the organization.

“Tonight we’re honouring 75 staff members who have combined more than 915 years of service,” he said.

Organizers thought the theme was quite appropriate, as they realize it takes a team effort to provide the best health care possible for the residents of the area.

The event was moved this year from the upstairs hall down to the ice pad to provide a more relaxed atmosphere, which prompted a change in menu for the festivities. Members of the RVH auxiliary served up munchies, fruits and veggies, and were assisted by their husbands who were flipping burgers and hot dogs on the barbecues outside.

Setting the tone for the evening were corporate vice-presidents Julia Boudreau and Chris Ferguson decked out in hockey gear and Paul Chatelain, who was dressed up and talking like Don Cherry.

“We are all on one team here – team RVH,” he proclaimed.

Even the designated “team captain” of each table had to shoot a goal into the net before going to the buffet line.

Following dinner, worklife awards were presented to those dedicated employees who have achieved milestones in their career at RVH. Physicans, volunteers and long-term staff were recognized for their 5-year, 10-year, 15-year and 20-year commitment to our hospital.

Among those at the hospital for 20 years is CEO Randy Penney, who was described as a leader and an innovator.

“In my opinion, he has made this the best rural hospital in Canada and brought us services we never dreamed we’d have,” commented Catherine O’Neil, Chair of the Board of Directors before presenting him with a small gift.

Close colleagues continued to honour longer-term members of the RVH family by sharing stories, laughs and warm praise for the hospital’s veteran staff.

Recognized for 25 years of service were Kathryn Burwell, Gillian Carty, Jenny Gibbons, Dr. David Johnson and Sue Simmons. Dr. Craig Appleyard, Dr. John Collins, Judi Gilmore, Lynn Gruntz, John Lyons, Ross Mason, Robert McPharland, Joy Thompson and Andrew Villamere all have been with RVH for 30 years. Marking their 35 anniversary with the hospital were Gayle Anderson, Dr. Lance Miller, Carole Rose and LeeAnn Somerville.

Upon receiving his award, Dr. Miller echoed the teamwork theme with compliments to all of the nurses and staff whom he works closely with on a daily basis – from those in the housekeeping department to dietary staff.

“It truly does take a team effort because I couldn’t do my job if it weren’t for all these other people behind the scenes,” he stated.

Those who have retired in the past year were also honoured for their commitment to RVH: Nancy Kelly-Moore, Kathy Kilby, Jan Leitch, Robert McIntosh, Betty Peplinski, Sharon Riopelle, Carole Rose, Geraldine Stroud, Carol Timmons, Margaret Whyte and Beulah Wright.

Volunteers on the board of directors were also paid due respect and closed the list of award recipients.

Penney pointed out that these members “give freely of their time and expertise” and the hospital is very lucky to have benefited from their many years spent on the board.

Board retirees for 2010 are Dr. Stephanie Langlois, Gerry Richards, Ned Rafuse and Bev Welsh.

(For more information contact Randy Penney, CEO, Renfrew Victoria Hospital, 613-432-4851, ext. 260.)