Woodridge Rehabilitation and Nursing recently held a ceremony to recognize the three employees honored by the Vermont Health Care Association (VHCA). VHCA presented Outstanding Caregivers Awards to Registered Dietician Janis Belforti, Dietician of the Year, long-time volunteer Lydia Lewis, Volunteer of the Year and Crystal Sayers, LNA, Secretary of the Year.
VHCA represents over 90 nursing homes, residential care homes and assisted living facilities. The awards are given to employees who demonstrate dedication and commitment to their residents, facility and profession, as well as loyalty, teamwork, and longevity.
Montpelier resident Lydia Lewis has been an activities assistant volunteer since 1996. In accepting her award, she said, “It is the greatest thrill for me to be in a place that I love so much. My father always said it was better to give than to receive, and I have given all that I can from my heart.”
LNA Crystal Sayers lives in East Montpelier. In nominating her for this award, a nurse manager and charge nurse wrote: “Our Residents love her. She has developed a trust, a bond with families she comes in contact with and knows what they need to hear in difficult times. It is this profound respect that she shows for all, her ability to be compassionate in difficult situations and the dignity she demonstrate for all she comes in contact with that makes her a very special person and worthy of this accolade.”
Morrisville resident Janis Belforti holds two masters degrees, one in nutrition and one in education. “I am elated to know that my co-workers think so highly of me. For me, this is not a job. It just makes me happy to make a difference in the lives of all of our residents.”
