Champions of Care – Whatever It Takes Winners for November 2025

Our Whatever It Takes Champions program honors associates who go beyond their job descriptions in caring for our patients, residents, and families. Here are four recent winners and their inspiring stories. We are proud to have associates like these who define what it means to be Champions of Care!

Amena Myles, CNA at Rivergate Terrace

A resident’s daughter arrived to take her mother home to enjoy Thanksgiving with family. But to the daughter’s dismay, she was unable to help her mother, who had difficulty lifting her legs, into the car.

The daughter became fraught and overwhelmed, but not for long! Amena overheard the issue and stepped in without hesitation to help the resident into the car with care, compassion, and skill.

Thanks to Amena, the resident made it home safely and comfortably to spend the holidays with her family.

Angelica Medina, CNA at Life Care Center of Punta Gorda

A resident’s son requested that Angelica be permanently assigned to his mother’s wing. If that alone doesn’t say enough about Angelica and her level of care, read what the son expressed about her in his official request:

“Since this CNA began working with my mother, I have observed a significant and positive difference in her daily care and overall well-being. Angelica consistently demonstrates an exceptional level of professionalism, skill, and genuine compassion.

Specifically, I have been impressed by her attention to detail, positive communication, and proactive care. The consistency provided by having a dedicated, high-quality caregiver like Angelica, and a few others on this unit, is invaluable for the residents, especially those with memory issues who thrive on routine. Their presence significantly contributes to my peace of mind and not only to my mother’s quality of life but all of the residents on this wing.”

Tabatha Payton, CNA at Life Care Center of Bruceton-Hollow Rock

Tabatha received her Whatever It Takes nomination from a short-stay therapy patient. According to the patient, this was their first time at a rehab facility and didn’t know what to expect.

In the new environment, the patient had a little trouble getting comfortable. To help the patient cool down, Tabatha found a fan they could use during their stay. Going even further, she attached a piece of paper to the fan to enhance its performance.

The patient stated that Tabatha’s attention and thoughtfulness made her feel welcome and at ease. And she decided to keep the piece of paper from the fan as a memento of Tabatha’s kindness!

Payton Barrett, Social Services Director at Rensselaer Care Center

Payton helped a hospice patient reconnect with her son after 15 years!

The resident told Payton she wanted to see her son one more time, but she didn’t know where he was or how to contact him. All she had was his name –– which was all Payton needed.

Payton found her son in no time and reached out to him. A few days later, the son arrived at the facility to see his mother.

The resident and her son cried, held hands, and made amends. Thanks to Payton, the two of them experienced the healing they needed to face the next chapter with a sense of peace.