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Cameo of Caring
At Summa, we recognize that our nurses are at the center of our patient care and a driving force behind our success. Each year, the "Cameo of Caring Award" is given that recognize nurses that exhibit caring and excellence in nursing care. Our latest recipients are highlighted below.
 Cathy Dix, RNClinical Care Coordinator Summa Health System Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital Cathy Dix always wanted to be a nurse, but put off her dream until her three children were in school. Cathy pursued her nursing degree initially at Akron University and ultimately completed her nursing degree through the St. Thomas School of Nursing program. Cathy's abilities as a nurse in Chemotherapy Special Services are a tremendous asset to Cuyahoga Falls General Hospital. Cathy's clinical expertise and caring demeanor have enabled patients to respond positively to treatment and services during a very stressful time in their lives. She receives many cards and visits from thankful patients and their families for her support and care. Cathy was the recipient of the 2008 Excellence in Nursing award as recognition of her outstanding care of patients and positive nursing abilities she demonstrates daily. Cathy's many qualities as both a nurse and co-worker clearly define the attributes of a Cameos of Caring nurse. Cathy currently resides in Cuyahoga Falls with her husband John and their hobbies include motorcycle riding, gardening, traveling and spending time with family on their family farm.  Curtis Baldridge, RNSumma Health System St. Thomas Hospital Mention a twenty-five year old young man and what comes to mind? A sports fanatic, a party animal, someone young and carefree? Well, what about a twenty-five year old male nurse that states "I love people and nursing allows me to make a difference in people's lives everyday!" This nurse would be Curtis Baldridge, representing Summa's St. Thomas Hospital. Curtis graduated from Stark State College of Technology in May of 2006. While young in years, he is seasoned in his soul-especially in the realm of caring and compassion. In his short nursing career he has already received numerous awards, including a Summa nursing education scholarship to attend the Quint Studer Conference this past spring on service excellence. As well, he was recognized as "Nurse of the Day" during his first nurse's week celebration in 2007 as well as earned a Certificate of Excellence for teamwork for being the most helpful, caring and friendly to work with. Just the mention of Curtis's name brings smiles to the folks that he works with everyday. St. Thomas is extremely proud to have him as their representative. Despite a fast-paced unit with high volumes, Curtis consistently receives compliments from those that he cares for. He exemplifies what a true nurse is and is a tremendous statement for young nurses, especially male. Curtis speaks of "being excited about nursing as it continues to change, challenge and provide opportunities to show caring and compassion in this hurting world." He feels that he knows that as a nurse, we make a difference everyday. "That is why I love being a nurse!" Curtis resides in Akron with his wife Rachel and enjoys the guitar and mountain biking.  Dianna Dean, RNSumma Health System Barberton Citizens Hospital Dianna Dean always knew she would be a nurse. What she did not know was what a great nurse she would become. As a critical care nurse at Summa Barberton Citizens Hospital, Dianna has proven her skills to both students and staff as an exceptional role model. Her smile is as endless as her energy. She has demonstrated her commitment to Nursing by obtaining her Master's degree while working full-time and raising a family. Dianna has followed her passion by serving as a clinical instructor for Stark State College to "grow" the nurses of tomorrow. Her colleagues describe her as a nurse of the heart and she is known for consistent empathy to her patients and families. Dianna relieves with a gentle touch and soft voice. She has inspired her co-workers by her strength and courage to become a Cameo Of Caring recipient.  Holly Quinn, RNAffiliate of Summa Health System Robinson Memorial Hospital Holly has been a nurse for more than 20 years and a critical care nurse at Robinson Memorial Hospital since 2003. Her career choice came early in middle school. After being a member of Future Nurses Club and the Future Teachers Club, she realized she could have the best of both worlds by being a nurse. Colleagues describe Holly as "A Package Deal" -everything you could want in a nurse. She is known in the ICU and CCU for her compassion, clinical expertise and drive for excellence. She brings out the best in those who work around her. She frequently has patients return to thank her for the care she delivers. Holly looks for opportunities to advance the discipline of nursing through her clinical instructor role, mentoring and active training of her colleagues with hemodynamics and ACLS. She is never idle with her time and is always looking to perfect care delivery. Holly started her nursing career as an LPN and continued with her professional growth, graduating with an ADN from Walsh College in 1990. She is currently enrolled in the BSN to APN program. Holly resides in Canton with her husband Rick and her two daughters Nicole and Ashley.  Vickie Wells BSN, RN, CAPASumma Health System Akron City Hospital Surgical Services Vickie Wells always was a good student and soon realized that teacher's have the ability to shape how we learn. Teaching people to understand compassion and giving of ones self is how people take care of one another. Vickie knew this is what she was meant to do, "teach others". It was not until she had a learning opportunity as a nurse's aide that she felt she had found her voice. Vickie began her career graduating from St. Thomas Hospital School of Nursing in Akron, Ohio in 1974 and earning her BSN from Walsh University. She is currently enrolled in Duquesne University School of Nursing for her Master's in Nursing, of course, her emphasis is on Education. Her projected graduation is in May 2009. This year, Vickie also was recognized as the "2008 Preceptor of the Year" for Akron City Hospital. To Vickie, the most satisfying part of her career is the nurse to patient relationship. The nurse who can provide comfort (holding a hand or wiping a tear) and relieving pain provides the most intimate of relationships for a patient and the nurse. If I am not at the bedside then I want to teach that belief to every nurse. Family is important to Vickie and it is the whole family, parent's included, that work together as part of their "Kettle Corn" business on weekends. Vickie resides in Kent, OH with her husband Eldon. Their two children, William and Megan, attend college locally to keep their family close. |
