Three associates at two Tennessee Life Care facilities win hospice award

On March 24, the University of Tennessee Medical Center’s Hospice Services presented its Angel Award to three Life Care associates: two from Life Care Center of Jefferson City, Tennessee, and one from Life Care Center of Morristown, Tennessee.

Hospice employees nominated and voted for medical professionals in the community who provided top-notch care to their hospice patients, and among the 12 chosen were Willie Mack, licensed practical nurse; Terilynn Borders, certified nursing assistant; and Hope Mendoza, certified nursing assistant.

“We were brainstorming and thought, ‘We’ve got to come up with some way to let people know that we recognize caregivers who have stuck out,’” said Kacey Free, UT Hospice account executive.

These were the initial awards presented by the organization. It plans to present Angel Awards twice a year.

Willie Mack – LPN at Life Care Center of Jefferson City

Willie had just retired from her 16-year career at the facility the same day that UT called to let the facility know she had won.

“We were able to convince Willie to come back for a visit and enjoyed seeing the look on her face when she was presented with the award,” said Debra Vento, executive director at Life Care Center of Jefferson City.

Willie was nominated for always being available and putting her patients first.

“I made a difference in the lives of the people I cared for and their families,” said Willie. “We were there to take care of them, and they were loved.”

Terilynn Borders – CNA at Life Care Center of Jefferson City

Terilynn has been a CNA for more than 21 years. She started her career in Wisconsin and relocated to Tennessee in 2005.

Terilynn was nominated for taking extra time to make sure patients are taken care of and ready for their visit from hospice, adding extra attention to detail.

“The award reminds me what I do is an inspiration for others – to always make a difference and be kind,” said Terilynn. “It is so amazing knowing I can make a difference of happiness for others, no matter what is going on in the moment. It is an honor, and being a CNA is amazing.”

Hope Mendoza – CNA at Life Care Center of Morristown

Hope has served at the facility for eight months. She was nominated for always being ready to assist hospice staff and answer their questions.

“Hope truly loves her residents,” said Victoria Bowen, executive director at Life Care Center of Morristown. “She goes above and beyond every single day for them to make sure they have what they need. She always shows up with a positive attitude and willing to help any way she can.”

Hope shared, “It’s honestly a great feeling to know that families feel I do my best at taking care of their loved one. My goal each day is to provide the type of care that I would want my own family to receive, especially end-of-life care. No one wants to feel alone during such a hard time. Providing the best care I can is a priority.”

Congratulations to all three ladies! Life Care is proud of you!