WATERTOWN, NY – Join us for an inspiring afternoon with guest author Catherine Schmuck at the Samaritan Auxiliary Gift Shop, located in the main lobby of Samaritan Medical Center at 830 Washington Street. On Friday, November 1, 2024, from 1-4 p.m., you’ll have the chance to purchase Catherine’s cookbooks and children’s book and engage with an author who is celebrated for her exquisite recipes and extraordinary adventures aboard ships. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect and have your book signed!
“The Samaritan Auxiliary Board is delighted that she is taking the time to join us for this book signing before her call for duty and adventure on the next ship,” stated Auxiliary President Shawna Cutuli. “It is a great opportunity to begin your holiday shopping for someone on your list who enjoys cooking or is intrigued by what and how a chef prepares meals for a large crew each day while on the water. The stories and photos are fascinating, and there are many wonderful, delicious recipes.”
Catherine Schmuck, a chef on freighters, began her career in 1981 and worked her way up to Chief Cook in 1989. In 1994, she left the sailing world and opened her own restaurant in Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, Canada. In 2019, after closing her restaurant, she returned to her love of sailing! As Catherine began sharing her daily meals and adventures to a growing audience, she began using her free time aboard the ships to work on the cookbook she dreamed of compiling. She began intertwining the recipes and pictures of food with stories and photographs of life on a ship, which led to her labor of love, “Ship to Shore Chef.” As you sail along with her, you may feel like you may have hopped on and joined the ship’s crew, much like Mitchell Mouse did in her children’s book. Both of her cookbooks, “Recipes and Stories as I Sail Through My Day” and “More Recipes and Stories as We Navigate Healthier Eating” will be available for sale in the gift shop, as well as “The Stowaway Adventures,” a beautifully illustrated children’s book featuring the adventures of Mitchell Mouse.
###
About Samaritan Auxiliary:
Samaritan Auxiliary is a 501(c)3 organization governed by a Board of Directors consisting of volunteers that continue the mission established in 1896. The Auxiliary is in its 128th year of service of raising money to purchase capital equipment currently through its only community fundraiser, One Night, One Diamond. In addition, the Auxiliary fulfills smaller requests through its continuous ventures, such as, the Auxiliary Gift Shops, Sips Coffee Shop, the Uniform and Purse sales during the year, membership dues and donations. These additional needs are met through an application process brought before the Auxiliary Board each year. Some of the requests fulfilled were stuffed animals to children receiving care in the Samaritan Outpatient Pediatric Surgical department, Nee Doh Balls that benefitted patients in the Inpatient Mental Health Unit and Acute Rehabilitation Unit providing stress relief and help with motor skills, two handheld ultrasound dopplers for Interventional Radiology, the partial funding of an ABI tool for the Samaritan Wound Center, and we also provide Watertown Daily Times newspaper subscriptions for patient use, to name a few of the ways that the Auxiliary is dedicated to enhancing patient care and experience. Since 1954 Samaritan Auxiliary has proudly provided scholarships to employees continuing their education in healthcare with two $1500 scholarships awarded this year. Over the course of the 128 years of the Auxiliary volunteers’ hard work and dedication, many millions of dollars have been given to Samaritan to enhance patient care and experience. This work continues today with volunteers that provide many hours of dedicated service to help achieve these goals.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY, and BEE Award recipients for August 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members for being excellent every day, both at the hospital and outpatient clinics.
Courtney Male, Registered Nurse (RN), of Samaritan Medical Center’s 4Pavilion, received the DAISY Award. Rebecca “Becky” Newark, nursing assistant (NA), of Samaritan Medical Center’s Progressive Care Unit (PCU), received the BEE Award.
Joyce James, RN, Samaritan Medical Center, 4Pavilion, nominated Male for the DAISY Award saying:
“Courtney is passionate about ensuring each individual patient receives care with the utmost dignity and respect, no matter their background. She is frequently found spending time with patients and family members, well beyond what is expected, to provide the emotional support they need. When a patient is scared, Courtney is right by their side.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Male was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Newark was nominated for the BEE Award by April Del Prete, RN, of Samaritan’s PCU, saying:
“Becky truly stands out as exceptional. Becky’s dedication to her work is evident in the way she clearly communicates with me, touching base at the beginning of each shift to discuss the patient’s plan of care and promptly reporting important details such as pertinent vital signs and patient findings. Her honest, unmatched integrity, and strong work ethic make her an invaluable part of our team, and she has always been the cornerstone of support during the shifts we have worked together.”
Newark was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
These awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY, and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY, and BEE Award recipients for July 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members for being excellent every day, both at the hospital and outpatient clinics.
Megan Finucane, Registered Nurse (RN), of Samaritan’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) received the DAISY Award. Missy Patchin, of Samaritan Medical Center’s dietary team, received the BEE Award.
The daughter of a grateful patient nominated Finucane for the DAISY Award citing her family member’s experience and saying:
“She (Megan) was extremely compassionate towards us. Her presence during one of the most heartbreaking times gave us calm. I will never forget her warm energy, her compassion and overall bedside manner.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Finucane was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Patchin was nominated for the BEE Award by a few Samaritan Caregivers with the following statement for nomination:
“Missy greets customers with a smile and a warm welcome. She is exemplary. She puts patients, coworkers, and family members first. She has exceptional work performance and attitude.”
Patchin was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
These awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY, and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
From left to right are July 2024 awardees Megan Finucane, RN, and Missy Patchin, food service worker, Samaritan Medical Center.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY, BEE, and OWL Award recipients for May 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and outpatient clinics, and the OWL Award recognizes outstanding work from Samaritan’s long-term caregivers.
Erin Bush, Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), of the Adams Family Health Center received the DAISY Award. Renee Beach, administrative secretary, received the BEE Award. Samaritan Summit Village skilled nursing fourth floor unit clerk Brenda Magee received the OWL Award.
Adams Clinic Manager Donna Edwards, nominated Bush citing a particular patient experience and saying:
“Erin gives everything to her peers and patients. She makes herself available to everyone. She is a resource of knowledge and an experience problem solver. She is so deserving of this nomination. She exemplifies our organizations HEART values and is a HUGE asset to our team.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Bush was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Beach was nominated by Shannon Phillips, RN, nurse manager, with the following statement for nomination:
“Renee regularly goes above and beyond to support the Nursing Department. She is helpful and professional. She takes her role seriously and truly supports our organization in a professional and caring manner. Of mention are her tireless efforts in making Nurse’s Week successful every year. These celebrations don’t just happen on their own and Renee is responsible for all the planning, ordering, reserving and arranging to ensure our Nurses feel recognized and supported.”
Beach was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
Magee was nominated by Summit Village Director of Nursing Jeannette Emery who said:
“Brenda comes in early to assist with precepting new Certified Nursing Assistants. She communicates with staff and management to provide the best care for her residents and is respectful to families and everyone she encounters. Brenda is a great asset to the Samaritan family, and we are very happy she chose us.”
These awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY, BEE, and OWL Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
Pictured here, from left to right, are May 2024 caregiver awardees Erin Bush, LPN, Renee Beach, administrative secretary, and Brenda Magee, unit clerk.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – On May 29, a select group of Samaritan nurses were recognized for their contributions to the organization, patients, and residents throughout their time of employment. The exclusive celebratory event, held at Samaritan Summit Village, was a testament to their exceptional service. Qualified medical providers were invited to nominate a Samaritan Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) by submitting an essay, highlighting the relationships between nurses and providers.
Samaritan’s Vice President of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer John Green said, “I feel honored to be part of the first Nursing Awards event to be held since 2019, pre-pandemic. These incredible caregivers shine brightly day after day, and we are proud to recognize their contributions to our community.”
Samaritan Medical Center President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Carman welcomed the esteemed attendees, and Dr. Marylene Duah, infectious disease specialist, served as the master of ceremonies.
The following individuals were honored in their respective categories:
Education: Recipient: Jordain Forney Sullivan, RN, Emergency Department Nominated by: Maja Lundborg-Gray, MD
Excellence in Nursing Practice (Medical Center): Recipient: John Gahler, RN, Intensive Care / Progressive Care Units Nominated by: Aaliya Burza, MD
Excellence in Nursing Practice (Long Term Care): Recipient: Emily Bachmann, LPN, Samaritan Keep Home Nominated by: Collins Kellogg, MD
Excellence in Nursing Practice (Clinics): Recipient: Heather LaRose, LPN, Samaritan Family Health Center, Adams Nominated by: Joe Wetterhahn, MD
Innovation: Recipient: Kristy Graveline, LPN, Samaritan Home Health Nominated by: Mario Victoria, MD
Quality and Safety: Recipient: Stephanie Peters, RN, Quality Improvement Nominated by: Rory Sears, DO
Rookie of the Year: Recipient: Kasandra Keene, RN, Emergency Department Nominated by: Maja Lundborg-Gray, MD
Pictured here, in front, from left are Pamela Carter, LPN, Stephanie Peters, RN, John Gahler, RN, Kristy Graveline, LPN, Heather LaRose, LPN, and Jordain Forney Sullivan, RN. In back, from left are Nathanial Miletta, MD, Rory Sears, DO, Aaliya Burza, MD, Mario Victoria, MD, Joe Wetterhahn, MD, and Stephanie Droppelmann, MSN, BSN. Absent from the photo are Kasandra Keene, RN, Emily Bachmann, LPN, and nominators Collins Kellogg, MD, and Maja Lundborg-Gray, MD
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for March 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.
Brandi Simpson, registered nurse (RN) at Samaritan Interventional Radiology received the DAISY Award. Brittney Kiblin, registered pharmacy technician at Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.
Nurse Manager Kim Smith, nominated Simpson saying:
Brandi Simpson, RN
“Brandi takes time at the bedside to engage in casual conversation to ease the apprehension and fear of patients receiving treatment for both new and old acute and chronic diagnosis. Brandi makes sure that the support person is always included and provides time for them to ask questions and seek clarification. She always provides them with education and reassurance to always “reach out and call if you have any concerns or questions”. She always maintains that welcoming smile and demeanor. Plus she is always willing to come in on a moment’s notice to help with staffing and make sure patients’ needs are met. I am so proud to have Brandi on my team and for all she has accomplished.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Simpson was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Kiblin was nominated by Pharmacist Andrea Favret, with the following statement for nomination:
Brittany Kiblin, Registered Pharmacy Tech
“Brittney has been instrumental in preparing for and implementing the new regulations set forth by USP 797 on IV sterile compounding. Without her help, we wouldn’t be as successful as we are at maintaining regulations, training staff, and providing the highest level of care for our patients. Brittney is always willing to lend a hand to her fellow employees to complete the daily tasks in the department even if not scheduled to do so. She is very deserving of this award.”
Kiblin was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for January 2024. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, both at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.
Megan Gould, licensed practical nurse at Samaritan Family Health Center (SFHC) in Adams received the DAISY Award. Mary Deline, nursing assistant at Samaritan Medical Center 4 Pavilion, received the BEE Award.
Donna Edwards, clinic supervisor at SFHC in Adams nominated Gould saying:
“Megan has a wonderful skill set of communicating with her patients. She is calm and patient but sets clear appropriate boundaries with patients. She is a nurse that nurses should strive to be. She is a huge asset to our organization. There are many events that would warrant her the recognition of this award but most recently she had an encounter with a patient’s family at the end stages of her life. The outcome for the family was loss and grief but Megan did an amazing job making that complicated process to get Hospice into the home less stressful for the family. This care she gives patients resembles that on a daily basis and she deserves to be recognized for her continued amazing care for her patients.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Gould was presented with a certificate commending her as an extraordinary nurse, a DAISY Award pin, and a symbolic sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
Deline was nominated by Meghann Black, Registered Nurse at the Medical Center, with the following statement for nomination:
“Mary goes above and beyond for her patients. She takes her time with each and every one of them to make sure they are cleaned from head to toe and walked multiple times per day. Mary always volunteers to stay late on the days she works and almost always ends up working the next day. Mary is the epitome of how an aide should be and I do not think that she gets enough credit. Samaritan Medical Center is very lucky to have a hard dedicated worker like Mary.”
Deline was presented with a certificate, a BEE Award pin, and a gift bag with other tokens of gratitude.
Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and nominations can be submitted by patients, families, or colleagues at any time. To make a nomination or to learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
Megan Gould, licensed practical nurse, and Mary Deline, nursing assistant, were presented with certificates for Samaritan’s January 2024 DAISY and BEE Awards.
###
About Samaritan Medical Center
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Medical Center is pleased to announce its DAISY and BEE Award recipients for September, October, November, and December 2023. The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses® recognizes exemplary nursing staff, and the BEE Award honors other outstanding staff members who support patient care, at the hospital and all outpatient clinics.
September:
Jalynne Granger, Registered Nurse (RN), Samaritan Home Health, received the DAISY Award.
Brianna Biggs, nursing assistant, Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.
October:
Tamara Bennett, RN, at Samaritan Medical Center, received the DAISY Award.
Jamie Lyn Goutermout, safety aid, inpatient mental health unit at Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE award.
November:
Athena Green, RN, Samaritan’s emergency department, received the DAISY Award.
Jamie Via, nursing assistant, Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.
December:
Jennifer Steelman, RN, Samaritan Medical Center, received the DAISY Award.
Arlene Godfrey, EKG technician, Samaritan Medical Center, received the BEE Award.
An excerpt from Granger’s September DAISY award nomination from the family of a patient, read:
“Jalynne has gone up and beyond as a home health nurse to my mom. Jaylyn has been patient and kind. On one visit she realized that my mom needed to go to the doctor immediately as a result of an infection that had started. It ended with my mom needing a short stay in the hospital. Which could have been a long stay or even worse if not for her guidance. We have never had a home nurse before and our family was a little anxious about this new situation, however with Jaylynne as our nurse we look forward to her visit every week.”
An excerpt from Bennett’s October DAISY award nomination from a co-worker, read:
“4 Pavilion (Medical Center) is so very lucky to have Tamara as a nurse. She is always going above and beyond for her patients and her coworkers. On countless occasions she has stayed after her scheduled hours until change of shift to make sure the floor had a charge nurse or has come in on a weekend day when the floor is short staffed. When a nurse reports a concerning change in status of a patient, Tamara goes directly to the bedside to assess the situation firsthand.”
An excerpt from Green’s November DAISY award nomination from the family of a patient, read:
“Nurse Athena checked in on us time after time and gave us updates. Near the end of our time in the emergency department, she brought in a Christmas stuffed dog for my son, and my son absolutely adored that dog. It made everything better for him and he did not let go of the dog until the next morning. Nurse Athena was kind, patient, understanding, and overall, the best nurse I’ve encountered thus far at Samaritan. We need more nurses like Athena.”
An excerpt from Steelman’s December DAISY award nomination from a co-worker, read:
“I have also had the pleasure of working with Jenn side by side, and there are not enough words to describe a nurse like her who embodies compassion, kindness, and unwavering dedication. Jenn exemplifies the epitome of compassion, kindness, and selflessness in her role as a registered nurse at Samaritan Medical Center. Her unwavering dedication to her patients is a testament to her exemptional character and commitment to care.”
For receiving the DAISY Award – which is an international award backed by The DAISY Foundation – Granger, Bennett, Green, and Steelman were presented with certificates commending them as extraordinary nurses, DAISY Award pins, and symbolic sculptures called “A Healer’s Touch,” which is hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. A larger version of this sculpture has also been installed in the Healing Gardens at Samaritan Medical Center in honor of all DAISY and BEE Award winners to come. It was purchased using funds donated by the Samaritan Auxiliary.
An excerpt from Biggs’ September BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read:
“Brianna is the aide that every nurse wants to have. She always goes above and beyond for her patients and nurses. No matter the request Bri is always willing to help out. She is the first one to a call light even if it is not her assigned patient, she jumps in and offers assistance whenever it is needed.”
An excerpt from Goutermout’s October BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read:
“Her dedication and commitment to her role as a safety aid at Samaritan demonstrates how she embodies the Samaritan H.E.A.R.T. (honest, empathetic, accountable, respectful, trustworthy) values. Her actions clearly demonstrate her passion for ensuring the well-being of both the staff and patients.”
An excerpt from Via’s November BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read:
“If ever there was an example of somebody that fits the definition of “Being Excellent Every Day” it is Jamie. Jamie consistently goes about her day with a positive outlook and goes above and beyond for her patients. Her consistent empathy and compassion make all her patients feel as though they are the most important which brings happiness to their day.”
An excerpt from Godfrey’s December BEE award nomination from a co-worker, read:
“I often find Arlene accompanying visitors and patients to their appropriate destination when they are lost. I watch how she engages in casual conversation that usually ends with a thank you and a smile. Arlene is proficient in her job duties and takes the time to teach and educate others. She is a leader within the organization and is the point person for scheduling, coordinating staff (PCA and Nursing) education as well as taking in students and interns for shadow hours and education within the EKG department.”
Biggs, Goutermout, Via, and Godfrey were presented with certificates, BEE Award pins, and gift bags with other tokens of gratitude.
Both awards will continue to be presented throughout the year, and patients, families, or colleagues can submit nominations at any time. To nominate or learn more about the Samaritan DAISY and BEE Awards, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown, New York) is a 290-bed not-for-profit community medical center, offering a full spectrum of inpatient and outpatient healthcare services. From primary and emergency care to highly specialized medical and surgical services, such as cancer treatment, neonatal intensive care, behavioral health and addiction services, and imaging services, Samaritan Medical Center and its team of healthcare professionals proudly serves the medical needs of our civilian and military community. Quality, compassion, and safety are the basic principles by which exceptional care is delivered at Samaritan.
About The DAISY Foundation
The DAISY Foundation is a not-for-profit organization, established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes, by members of his family. Patrick died at the age of 33 in late 1999 from complications of Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (ITP), a little known but not uncommon auto-immune disease. (DAISY is an acronym for Diseases Attacking the Immune System.) The care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was ill inspired this unique means of thanking nurses for making a profound difference in the lives of their patients and patient families. In addition to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the Foundation expresses gratitude to the nursing profession internationally in over 3,900 healthcare facilities and schools of nursing with recognition of direct care Nurses, Nurse-led Teams, Nurse Leaders, Nursing Faculty, Nursing Students, through the J. Patrick Barnes Grants for Nursing Research and Evidence-Based Practice Projects and for nurses participating in medical missions. More information is available at http://www.DAISYfoundation.org.
Watertown, NY – Samaritan Keep Home and Samaritan Summit Village are pleased to announce the OWL award recipients for January 2024, the first recipients of this new award. The outstanding workers in long term care (OWL) award recognizes exemplary staff who support the residents, their families, and the caregivers at our long term care facilities.
Diana Sharpe, fifth floor Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) at the Keep Home, and Niah Perez, first floor skilled nursing unit clerk, at Summit Village, were nominated, and selected as winners by a committee.
A co-worker nominated Sharpe and an excerpt from the January OWL award nomination, read:
“Diana goes above and beyond for all our residents. She takes pride in the care she gives. She is so genuine and kind, not only towards our residents and their family members, but to our staff members as well. She orients our new CNAs and surpasses all expectations. She is one of the reasons why SKH has value to it.”
A director of nursing nominated Perez and an excerpt the January OWL award nomination, read:
“Niah’s main priority is residents overall care and experience. Her attention to detail is outstanding. Anytime you ask Niah for anything her answer is ‘I will get that done.’ She has a positive uplifting attitude that our residents love.”
For being recognized, the OWL recipients receive a certificate, special parking spot for a month, an owl pin, special banner recognition, badge buddy, and various treats.
The OWL award will continue to be presented at each Samaritan long term care facility throughout the year, and residents, families, or colleagues can submit nominations at any time. To nominate or learn more about the OWL award, visit www.samaritanhealth.com/daisy-bee.
Pictured here, on left, Diana Sharpe, CNA at the Keep Home, and on right, Niah Perez, unit clerk, Summit Village, are the first two recipients of the OWL award.
###
About Samaritan Keep Home
The Samaritan Keep Home is a 272-bed long term care facility connected to the Samaritan Medical Center campus in Watertown. This residential care facility provides a full range of skilled nursing assistance, rehabilitative therapies, and social and recreational activities. Our mission is to provide an atmosphere that allows our residents to thrive and remain socially active in all aspects of their lives.
About Samaritan Summit Village
At Samaritan Summit Village – Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing facilities – our team is committed to providing sophisticated senior living. Whether we’re assisting with daily chores or planning exciting group activities, we’re here to help make living easier, at a reasonable cost. The services needed by residents may vary widely, but the goal of our care is always the same: helping seniors to live exceptionally. With its amazing views, Samaritan Summitt Village overlooks Watertown, NY, and offers 120 assisted living beds, and 168 nursing home beds.
About The OWL Award
The owl is symbolic of intuition, protection, and wisdom. At Samaritan, we are all caregivers, including those who have committed to showing extraordinary compassionate care as a long term caregiver. We need each other to care for our community.
The OWL Award (Outstanding Workers in Long Term Care) was established in December 2023 and is awarded to a caregiver who has given their time and talent to the healthcare system and to our residents. The recipients have repeatedly gone above and beyond in their role to help our staff, and residents, to make our community thrive. They exemplify the HEART Values and take their role as a Samaritan Caregiver with pride.
The OWL Award complements our existing DAISY and BEE Awards for staff, and HIVE award for volunteers. Together we recognize the amazing caregivers of the Samaritan Health System and the culture we embrace.
Watertown, New York – The Samaritan Auxiliary hosted a grand opening and naming celebration of its new coffee shop located inside the main entrance of the Samaritan Medical Center on February 1, 2024.
The original coffee shop location, across from the Auxiliary’s gift shop at the other end of the main lobby, was needed to construct additional rooms for the behavioral health unit in the emergency department. The behavioral health crisis has created a need for these extra beds, and this move will accommodate this provision.
A naming contest was held, and after receiving 109 suggestions from Samaritan Caregivers, the name “Sips by Samaritan Auxiliary,” submitted by Ashlee Bucy, retention resolution specialist, was selected by the Auxiliary Board of Directors. Additionally, it was announced at the grand opening event that the coffee shop now offers delicious baked goods from Chrissy Beanz and specialty coffee beans from local vendors.
President of the Auxiliary, Shawna Cutuli, said, “We were excited to see so many Samaritan Caregivers and community members attend the event. The coffee shop and gift shop in the Medical Center are open for all to enjoy, and we are proud to showcase local products and vendors.”
Auxiliary Board members pictured here, for the Sips by Samaritan Auxiliary ribbon cutting ceremony on February 1, 2024, from left, are Vice President Bethany Todd; Treasurer Kerry Young; Andrea Roden; President Shawna Cutuli; and Kady Hoistion.
Shawna added, “In addition to the Samaritan Auxiliary Board members, we were pleased with how many Auxiliary members were able to attend the event including Susan Johnson, Janet George, Lu Green, Cynthia Ahlheim, Ann Van Slyke, and Patti Schreck.”
In 2024, Samaritan Auxiliary, composed entirely of volunteers, is proudly celebrating its 128th anniversary as it continues to play a vital role in enhancing the quality of care in the Samaritan Health system through the work of the volunteers and financial support. The House of the Good Samaritan was founded in 1881, and in 1896 the Trustees of the Hospital invited a group of ladies to act as an Auxiliary to the Board of Trustees with Mrs. Goodale as the first Auxiliary President. In 1899 a new hospital was built on Washington St. at a cost of $48,500, and by 1900 the Auxiliary had 213 members, a treasury of $2,485 and at Christmas they purchased dinner for the 25 patients hospitalized at a cost of $25, and still had some money to spare.
Throughout its 128 years of volunteer service the Auxiliary has consistently dedicated its efforts to serving the needs of The House of the Good Samaritan – Samaritan Health as a major contributor of volunteer time and financial resources. Here are just a few of the highlights and contributions that the Auxiliary has made over the course of the 128 years:
• 1903 Twigs began as working subdivisions of the Auxiliary initially supplying the hospital with linens, dishes, equipment, special foods. During the Depression when need was great the Twigs and Auxiliary redecorated and refurbished hospital rooms. One of the last Twig branches on the Samaritan ‘tree’, The Balsam Twigs, had been active until just recently, making a donation that benefited the patients in the Inpatient Mental Health Unit and Acute Rehab Unit in 2023. The Laurel Twig’s, formed in 1987, largest fundraiser, Book Sales, raised about $72,000 between 2001 and 2010 under the leadership of Sue Peters. The Bent Twigs, established in 1947, had 17 members fundraising in 2010 led by Beverly Lamica. • 1942 Volunteers staffed the Visitor’s Desk for the first time, and they continue to volunteer their time in the Auxiliary gift shops and other areas of the Samaritan System. • 1954 Auxiliary Scholarships were awarded to student and graduate nurses and later expanded to all employees • 1974 Auxiliary committed to a three-year project of underwriting $50,000 worth of equipment and furnishings for the new Maternity Wing • 1979 Auxiliary undertook a three-year project to raise $75,000 for ultrasound equipment • 1981 The “X-Rayted Follies”, a musical with singing and dancing by staff and community members, produced by the Auxiliary, raised $25,000 for the Cancer Treatment Center and Labor Room redecorating • 1984 The Auxiliary to the House of the Good Samaritan was incorporated, then renamed in 1995 to Samaritan Auxiliary. The Auxiliary purchased $34,000 of equipment and gave 34,796 hours of volunteer time • 1991 Auxiliary committed to a $250,000 pledge to the Capital Fund Drive for the new Maternity Unit. The “Rock-a-Bye Follies”, a musical performance led by a director from New York City and performed by local community members and staff at the Dulles State Office Building, raised $18,000 • 1992 The Auxiliary Gift Shop moved to a new location in the hospital and along with the SKH gift shop had profits of $50,000. The four year “Twig Challenge” was accepted by 12 active Twig groups to raise $500 each toward the Capital Fund Pledge, while the Auxiliary provided $10,000 toward Samaritan Keep Home’s renovations in the dining room. • 1993-1994 Revenue to support the hospital was generated from the gift shops, Baby Photos, Sneaker and Jewelry Sales, cookbook sales, patient television services • 1995 Renamed to ‘Samaritan Auxiliary’ with volunteer hours exceeding 50,000 • 1996 A $250,000 pledge to the Capital Fund Drive for the Maternity Unit was satisfied, with the Auxiliary as a lead donor; inaugural “Men’s Night in the Kitchen” fundraiser. • 1997-2001 Pledged $300,000 as a lead donor to the new Cardiac Catheterization Lab; Donated artwork, carpeting, decorating, and equipment at Samaritan Medical Center and Samaritan Keep Home; Began the Uniform Sales and Bridge Marathon fundraisers • 2002 Auxiliary participated in Samaritan Foundation’s new community event, “A North Country Festival of Trees” donating $5,000, two of the Twigs groups decorated trees and the Auxiliary provided volunteers for the event • 2003 Auxiliary’s new community fundraiser “One Night, One Diamond” initiated at Ives Hill Retirement Community with 50 guests in attendance • 2005 Auxiliary funded the playing of Brahms “Lullaby” on the loudspeaker throughout the hospital when a baby is born • 2006 Auxiliary’s “One Night, One Diamond” event for the first time dedicated the proceeds to purchase equipment – this year targeting breast cancer and purchasing the Mammotome Breast Biopsy System and Neo-Probe Gamma Detection System • 2007 – 2010 Auxiliary pledged $750,000 to the Advancing Healthcare- Close to Home Capital Campaign, and Starbucks coffee shop launched in SMC • 2018 Auxiliary pledged $500,000 to Samaritan Foundation’s Capital Campaign to build the Walker Center for Cancer Care • 2020 After a temporary closure in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, two of the Auxiliary Gift Shops at Samaritan Medical Center and Samaritan Summit Village and the Starbucks Coffee Shop in the Medical Center reopened slowly in 2021 despite the challenges. “One Night, One Diamond” was cancelled two weeks before the event in 2020, but due to the generosity of our sponsors and donors the Auxiliary presented a $96,344 check to Samaritan for the equipment necessary to perform Mohs Surgery for dermatology and another Optimum UV-Light due to the urgent COVID needs. • 2021 – 2022 the virtual event “One Night, One Diamond” in 2021 raised $83,675 to Samaritan for PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), just one of the unexpected expenses brought on by the pandemic, and in 2022 the event raised $110,322 for the purchase of another ultraviolet disinfection device, as well as supporting the purchase of five Sleep Lab Diagnostic Systems for the Samaritan Sleep Center • 2023 “One Night, One Diamond”, held again at The Commons on Fort Drum, proceeds purchased BioFire Modules for the Samaritan Laboratory and supported the purchase of the Hologic Breast PACS System with a check presentation to Samaritan totaling $87,661
The Auxiliary’s “One Night, One Diamond” event proceeds have purchased nearly a million dollars of capital equipment for Samaritan cancer patients, Smart IV pumps for pediatrics, non-invasive ventilators for newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, equipment for the Emergency Room and Intensive Care Unit, equipment to perform Mohs Surgery for Dermatology, equipment to support Robotic Surgery, UV lights for disinfection, PPE for staff during the challenging time of the pandemic, and so much more.
The Auxiliary Scholarships that began in 1954 are still awarded each year. As part of its mission to support and enhance healthcare programs at Samaritan, in May of 2023 Samaritan Auxiliary Scholarships were awarded to two Samaritan employees who are furthering their education in healthcare. One recipient, Anna O’Neil, a Registered Nurse who is enrolled in the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program at Chamberlain University with an expected completion date in 2025, recently progressed her career by becoming an assistant nurse manager in the Progressive Care and Intensive Care units at Samaritan Medical Center.
Samaritan Auxiliary is a 501(c)3 organization governed by a Board of Directors consisting of volunteers that continue the mission established in 1896. In its 128th year of service of raising money to purchase capital equipment, in addition fulfilling smaller requests through its continuous fundraising ventures, such as, the Auxiliary Gift Shops, Coffee Shop, as well as the Uniform and Purse sales throughout the year, additional needs are met through an application process to the Auxiliary Board each year. Some of the recent requests fulfilled were stuffed animals to children receiving care at Samaritan, coloring books, crayons, puzzles for patients, Watertown Daily Times newspaper subscriptions for patient use, Nee Doh Balls for that benefited the patients in the Inpatient Mental Health Unit and Acute Rehab Unit providing stress relief and help with motor skills, to name a few.
Over the course of the 128 years of the Auxiliary volunteers’ hard work and dedication, many millions of dollars have been given to Samaritan to enhance patient care and this continues today. The volunteers that work in the Samaritan Medical Center and Samaritan Summit Village gift shops provide many hours of dedicated service to help us achieve these goals.
The Auxiliary is always looking for new volunteers and welcome all who would like to share in their commitment of support to Samaritan Health. If interested in volunteering in the gift shops, please reach out to Amanda Bradbury, Manager of Volunteer Services at (315) 785-4479. Another way to support Samaritan Auxiliary is by becoming an Auxiliary member through dues. If you are interested in becoming an Auxiliary member or to make a donation, please consider an annual regular membership at $15, a senior membership at $5, or Lifetime Member status with a $200 donation online at Samaritan Auxiliary, or by mailing a check to Samaritan Auxiliary, Attn: Membership Chair, 830 Washington St., Watertown, NY 13601.
Samaritan Health is not responsible for content, privacy policy, accuracy or legality of any website assessed through a link on www.samartianhealth.com. A link to another website does not constitute an endorsement, guarantee or approval by Samaritan Health of the linked website or the information, products or services contained therein
