Kate Lawrence, wound, ostomy and continence nurse at the VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region, received the United Ostomy Associations of America's Distinguished Volunteer Award at the organization's 2022 virtual symposium on Aug 13.
Lawrence was recognized for her advocacy of patients in the ostomy community as well as the hours she has given to the Advocacy Committee of the UOAA. She and the Advocacy Committee published a white paper, "Ostomy and Continent Diversion Patient on Bill of Rights: Research Validation of Standards of Care," in the May/June 2022 issue of the Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing. Lawrence was also cited for her work on behalf of the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society, where she serves as public policy and advocacy coordinator.
"You have a passion and a heart for people living with ostomies and continent diversions that do not go unnoticed," James Murray, president of the UOAA, told Lawrence. "Ostomy nurses are one of a kind, and we are so proud to have you on our team."
In 2018, Lawrence was presented with the WOCN President's Award for leading the development of WOC Nurse Scope and Standards endorsed by the American Nurses Association. A frequent presenter and author of articles for professional organizations, she has been a wound, ostomy and continence nurse for more than 34 years and has facilitated a monthly support group in Rutland for ostomy patients.