Qualities of a Great Skilled Nursing Staff – Whatever It Takes Winners for March 2024

Life Care Centers of America's Whatever it Takes Champions program honors associates who go beyond their job descriptions in caring for our skilled nursing patients and long-term care residents, their families and fellow associates. Here are four of the inspiring stories from our recent winners. These associates are certainly Champions of Care!

Courtney Margerum, Certified Occupational Therapist at Life Care Center of Ooltewah

Courtney tries to get to know her patients so she can find new ways to inspire and motivate them. One recent patient required extensive help with all activities and treatments and had little motivation for therapy. But one day, Courtney discovered that this patient loved Elvis.

So, Courtney started playing Elvis’s songs during all his treatments. The effect was immediate. The patient perked up and became more determined to meet his goals. At one point, he even whisked his wife into a dance!

Thanks, Courtney, for connecting with and motivating our patients!

Life Care Center of Ooltewah

Vilamene Saint Lous, Certified Nursing Assistant at Life Care Center of Port St. Lucie

Vilamene exemplifies care, compassion and commitment in her role as a CNA. If you don’t believe us, take a look at this letter penned by the family members of one of her patients:

“We are writing to express our profound gratitude for the exceptional care provided by Vilamene. Her dedication and compassion have significantly impacted our mother's and grandmother's life. Vilamene's approach to care goes beyond her duties. She brings warmth and joy into every interaction.

“Her ability to connect with our loved one on a personal level has brought us immense comfort. Vilamene's actions reflect not only her professional excellence but also her remarkable character and kindness. It is caregivers like her who make a world of difference in the lives of those they care for and their families.”

Thanks for being there for our patients, residents and their families, Vilamene.

Life Care Center of Port St. Lucie

Darnell Proffitt, Dietary Aide at Life Care Center of Morristown

Darnell displays his commitment to his role every day. But it was during a recent snowstorm that he revealed the true extent of his dedication to service. The snowfall during this storm had left the roads untraversable to most vehicles. To avoid missing his shift and leaving his dietary duties unfulfilled, Darnell grabbed his bicycle and braved the snow so that he could be there for his team and provide quality dining service to his patients and residents.

Thanks for your determination and reliability, Darnell!

Life Care Center of Morristown

DeShone Mathis, Certified Nursing Assistant at Life Care Center of East Ridge

DeShone is another associate whose exceptional service motivates people to share their gratitude publicly. This time, it was one of our residents who wanted to express how much DeShone and her joyful, attentive care means to them:

“Shone is attentive to every need. She is quick to respond with a glass of water, ice, food, pillows, blankets and more. All final bedtime needs. She has a happy demeanor and an infectious laugh. She is the best of the best!”

Thanks, DeShone, for helping our residents feel supported and fulfilled.

Life Care Center of East Ridge