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In This Issue:
Sandra Gilcrist, LPN
While her 23rd anniversary at BWH is only a month away, Sandra Gilcrist, LPN, sees each day as fresh and new and wonders how that many years can pass by so quickly. Then she ponders a little further, “When you are surrounded by such a supportive group, each day provides new experiences, with constant opportunities to learn and grow,” she said.
“The hospital is my second home. My colleagues are my extended family and I look forward to spending time with them each day. I guess it’s no wonder I have spent almost my entire career at BWH and feel like I just started yesterday.” But based on her recent nomination as a Starfish Awardee and recognition as this month’s Service Hero, it is clear that Gilcrist isn’t the only member of the Operating Room (OR) team who shares such sentiments. According to her colleagues, a shift spent working along side Gilcrist is one imbued with compassion and understanding. Her warm disposition has a way of brightening up even the most challenging situations the OR has to offer.
“Sandy is a very caring, unselfish person who always puts the patient and family first,” said Melissa Rounbehler, RN, one of Gilcrist’s co-workers who nominated her for the award. “The OR is a better place because of the energy, dedication and service Sandy offers,” added Rounbehler.
For Gilcrist, it is the little things throughout at day at BWH that make a difference. She smiles, says hello, always asks people if they need assistance and lends a helping hand to new nurses. She follows simple a simple rule that makes her a huge success among the OR team. “Each day I arrive at the hospital, I make a pact with myself to be better than the day before,” she said.