Sie sind auf Seite 1von 20

APRIL 9, 2015

Honoring local health care professionals who make a difference in the Coastal Bend

PRESENTED BY:

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Contents
3
4-5
8

Strong bond with doctors


benets patients
Physicians Excellence in
Health Care Award
Dental Excellence in Health
Care Award

9-10

Administrative Excellence in
Health Care Award

11

Nurses Excellence in Health


Care Award

12-13
14,16

Community Outreach Award


Health Care Professional
Award

17

Choosing winners a tough task


for panel of judges

19

Complete list of nominees

Honoring the
heroes among us
We are fortunate to have
thousands of excellent healthcare professionals taking care
of us here in the Coastal Bend.
They are our unsung heroes.
Most of them will tell you the
care, compassionate and expertise they provide are just
part of the job. We know its
more than that.
Health Care Heroes have a
purpose: To help, heal, comfort
and save lives. They put others before themselves. They
see problems and solve them.
They are individuals and organizations who truly make
a difference in the health and
well-being of our community.
Health Care Heroes is a
program of the Corpus Christi
Caller-Times that recognizes
excellence in care and service
and educates the community
about best practices to enhance
the value and quality care in
the Coastal Bend area. This

STEVE
ARNOLD
V.P./MARKETING

is our third annual celebration for recognizing their outstanding work and contributions. We would like to thank
our sponsors for joining us to
recognize the great work and
service of our health care industry.
There were more than 100
nominations in our rst Health
Care Heroes event. All of these
nominations were reviewed by
a panel of community judges,
who selected 18 nalists (three
in each of our six categories).
An overall winner in each of
the six categories will be an-

Health Care
Heroes have a
purpose: To help,
heal, comfort and
save lives. They
put others before
themselves. They
see problems and
solve them.
nounced at awards ceremony
luncheon on Tuesday, April 14
at the Solomon P. Ortiz Center.
Our overall winners will be
featured in a full page advertisement in the Sunday, April
19, edition of the Caller-Times.
Please join us in thanking ALL
of our health care professionals.

Christus Spohn Health System, region have developed together


As Corpus Christi grows and
diversies, the vital health care
infrastructure of our city must
do the same.
At Christus Spohn Health
System, we have a long history of anticipating the health
care needs of our community
and providing the services to
meet those needs. On July 26,
1905, the doors of the very rst
SpohnHospitalopenedonNorth
Beach. The Sisters of the Incarnate Word were there to greet
and care for the rst patient.
Dr.ArthurE.Spohnwasthere
too. It was he who had the vision to build a hospital where he
couldcareforthe7,000residents
of Corpus Christi. From those
small beginnings, today we operate Christus Spohn Hospitals
inAlice,Beeville,CorpusChristi

and Kingsville, and serve more


familiesintheCoastalBendthan
any other health care provider.
ChristusSpohnFamilyHealth
Centers offer convenient primary health care, close to home,
with centers throughout South
Texas. Our Cancer Centers in
Alice,AransasPass,Beevilleand
Corpus Christi including Calallen also offer the right care,
right here.
Since 1996, Christus Spohn
Health System has also operated what is now Christus Spohn
Hospital Corpus Christi-Memorial for the Nueces County Hospital District, fullling not only
the vision of Dr. Spohn and the

Sisters of the Incarnate Word,


but the Hospital Districts mission of providing health care
for all.
In the Christus Spohn facilities of today, Coastal Bend residents and visitors candepend on
the only Level II Trauma Center
south of San Antonio; a nationally recognized stroke center;
an accredited chest pain center,
a top-rated residency program
training the doctors of tomorrow; a regional cancer center
network, dedicated community
support groups; and a nonprot
foundation to support the systems growth; all staffed by extraordinary physicians, nurses,
clinicians and associates, thousands of people who call South
Texas home.
This year, Christus Spohn

Health System has embarked


on an exciting new journey to
transform the health care of the
Coastal Bend for generations
to come. Its called Our PATH
Forward, a $325 million project which will rise to meet the
growing needs of our expanding community. PATH stands
for People and Actions Transforming Health care. Our unprecedented investment from
Christus Health will create an
ultramodern hospital tower, a
new Trauma Center at Christus
Spohn Hospital Corpus ChristiShoreline; and, the new Dr. Hector P. Garcia Memorial Family
Health Center to provide a wide
spectrum of care for Corpus
Christi families, while honoring one of the regions greatest
leaders and a beloved physician.

We at Christus Spohn are


proud of our history of serving
Coastal Bend residents, and are
excited about the growth and
opportunities to come. Christus Spohn will continue to provide compassionate care for the
needs of our community, stay on
the cuttingedgeof medicaltechnology, foster a dedicated and diverse workforce and plan for the
future growth of South Texas.
We will continue transforming
ourselvesaswetransformhealth
care in Corpus Christi as the
Coastal Bend grows, Christus
Spohn Health System will be
ready and willing to serve the
community. Thank you for allowing us to be your health care
provider of choice, and for being
a partof our continuingcommitment to serve our community.

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Health Care Heroes

Evelyn Nichol, 93, with


Dr. Shamim BadruddinMawji, the cardiologist
who performed a new
procedure on her to
replace a valve in her
heart. I know if I had
a real problem I could
call Dr. Badruddin ...
shes very encouraging
and made me feel like
I was stronger than I
am, Nicol said.
CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

Strong bond with doctorS


ServeS to benefit patientS
By Dayna Worchel

Special to the Caller-Times

velyn Nicol heard some health news that would


have frightened many, if not all.
She had a few months to live, doctors told
her. A valve in her heart needed to be replaced,
and she was not a candidate for open heart
surgery because she was too old.
Nicol, 93, said she lived with the possibility
of imminent death for a couple of years. It was
her faith and her relationship with her doctors
that pushed her through the troubling time,
she said.
Im a strong Christian and that didnt upset

me. Id had a good life, said the positive and


cheerful Nicol during a recent interview in her
living room.
Studies have shown a bond with a doctor is
a strong benefit to a patients well-being and
disposition in trying circumstances. The apple
a day may keep the doctor away, but when the
physician is a staple in daily life, an open, honest and sincere relationship with the patient
proves helpful.
Nicol in 2014 learned of a new procedure
being pioneered in Corpus Christi to help patients like her, called transcatheter aortic valve
replacement or TAVR. Nicols cardiologists,
Dr. Shamim Badruddin-Mawji and Dr. Sri-

kanth Damaraju told her about the procedure


and said she would be the perfect patient to
have it. In fact, Nicol would be the first in the
city to have it if she consented.
It took some persuasion from family, friends
and her minister, but Nicol did the procedure,
which involves inserting a catheter through
the patients groin, opening the bad heart
valve, and replacing it with a valve made of
mesh with a steel lining while the patient is
sedated. Once the valve is functioning, the patient can go home within 24 to 48 hours, Dr.
Badruddin said.
See BOND, 6

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Physicians Excellence
in Health Care Award

Honors a physician such as family physician,


pediatrician, OB/GYN, psychiatry, osteopathy,
chiropractic, anesthesiology, oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery, etc. whose performance is
considered exemplary by patients and peers.

Dr. Rob Sherron

Dr. Runo H. Gonzalez

I started to see Dr. Sherron when our


insurance changed and I had to switch
physicians. Once I met him and his staff
the rst time, I knew right then I would
never switch doctors again.
Our insurance changed again two
years ago and I refused to leave his
practice. I have all my family, friends
and co-workers seeing him and they all
say the same thing. He is such a humble, loving, straight to the point doctor.
There was a point in my life that if
it wasnt for him I would be in a horrible place at this time. I didnt want
to disappoint him in anyway so I did exactly what he told me to do
(doctors orders). He will sit down with you and explain everything
to you like if you were a part of his family. If I could do more for Dr.
Sherron and his staff I would any day!

A majority of South Texans who have been


hospitalized for an injury would agree that Dr.
Runo H. Gonzalez is deserving of the highest honor. But what is it about his character
that has made him one of the most well known
surgeons in this
area?
Ive witnessed
Dr. Gonzalez in
his realm the
operating room.
His focus is
almost unsettling
while he stands
for hours over
a table, drill in
hand, determined
that his patient
will stand on this
temporarily shattered leg. As I
watch, he grins
at me for the rst
time in three
hours saying that we are halfway done and perhaps I should go get some coffee.
Dr. Gonzalez has rarely made it through a
dinner out that does not involve a past patient,
client, colleague or golf partner recognizing
and thanking him for his service to their family. This results when you devote most of your
life to operating. Even now in his rst few
strides to retirement, he can hardly stay away
from the hospital, not by his own will but the
invaluable nature of his expertise.
A solid work ethic has certainly inuenced
Dr. Gonzalezs accomplishments. Aside from
his many success stories in the medical eld
he has made it to every basketball game and
graduation without being pulled away.

CHRISTUS SPOHN HEALTH SYSTEM

CORPUS CHRISTI FAMILY MEDICINE

Nominated by: Nancy Meru

Mario A. Martinez, M.D.


Board Certified Internal Medicine

Thank You Corpus Christi

for your nomination as a Health Care Hero!


Open Saturdays 8am-3pm
y
y 7am-6pm
p
Monday-Friday
Welcoming New Patients. Call for an appointment today!
3829 Saratoga Blvd.
Corpus Christi

4914 Greenwood Dr.


Corpus Christi

www.marioamartinezmd.com

4621 S. Staples St.

(Across from King High School)

115 Northshore Blvd.


Portland

CAL491665

361-906-2121

Nominated by: Amelia Gonzalez

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Physicians Excellence
in Health Care Award

Health Care Heroes

Honors a physician such as family physician,


pediatrician, OB/GYN, psychiatry, osteopathy,
chiropractic, anesthesiology, oncology, cardiology, neurosurgery, etc. whose performance is
considered exemplary by patients and peers.

Dr. Marsha Allen

HEALTH BY DESIGN AT VALERO REFINERY CORPUS CHRISTI


Dr. Marsha Allen is a board certied family
physician who practices medicine at Valero
Corpus Christi reneries as part of Health by
Design. At Valero, employee wellness, especially safety, is the No. 1 priority. The more than 800
Valero employees are extremely blessed to have
on-site wellness/ medical clinic with Dr. Allen
as our physician.
While she does focus on helping Valero
employees live healthier lifestyles, she treats
chronic medical problems, minor injuries and
other more acute problems. This is my primary
reason in nominating Dr. Allen.
There are countless examples of how Dr.

Allen helped Valero employees who were totally


unaware of an underlying serious medical issue.
She was able to diagnose and help treat or work
alongside specialists in ensuring our employees
were brought back to health and recovery!
Her extensive medical background from the
College of William and Mary, the Medical College of Virginia and internships and resident
programs are a valuable resource in helping to
diagnose and treat employees. Her expertise,
compassion and genuine care for her patients,
our Valero employees, make her an ideal Health
Care Hero.
Nominated by: Lillian Riojas

Our Pharmacy To Your


Front Door Or Office!

Save time and make life easy with our prescription


delivery service, exclusively from your H-E-B Pharmacy.

t .PTU QSFTDSJQUJPOT EFMJWFSFE JO  IPVST PS MFTT PG


being prepared by a pharmacist**
t 1BZ CZ FYBDU DBTI PS DIFDL
t .VTU CF  PS PMEFS XJUI WBMJE *% BOE QSFTFOU UP
receive prescription and provide payment
t 4FF ZPVS )&# 1IBSNBDZ GPS NPSF EFUBJMT

)&# SFTFSWFT UIF SJHIU UP NPEJGZ PS DBODFM UIJT QSPNPUJPO BU BOZ UJNF 1SFTDSJQUJPO MM NVTU CF OBMJ[FE CZ  QN %FMJWFSZ JT OPU BWBJMBCMF PO IPMJEBZT PS XFFLFOET 1MFBTF DPOUBDU ZPVS MPDBM )&# 1IBSNBDZ GPS EFUBJMT
Available in all Corpus Christi H-E-B Pharmacies. Some insurance plans restrict coverage for home delivery, even when the same prescription is covered for in-store pickup.

CAL491696

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

BOND
from 3

Its been almost a year since


the procedure and she says she
is happy she did it. She goes to
church and enjoys her time with
friends and family. Nicol credits
the relationship with her doctors as a big factor to her healing.
I know if I had a real problem I could call Dr. Badruddin
... shes very encouraging and
made me feel like I was stronger
than I am, Nicol said.
The doctor gave Nicol hope
and told her she could still live
well despite her age, Nicol
said.
She laughs a lot, and shes
very concerned and very intelligent. She accepts you the way
you are with all of your problems and peculiarities, Nicol
said with a smile.
Dr. Badruddin returns the
warm feelings, saying she
thinks of Nicol as if she were
family.
The doctor said as Nicol
relaxed on the operating table
waiting for the procedure to begin, she turned to Dr. Badruddin and Dr. Damarju and said
something very inspiring and
incredible.
She said, Even if theres a
bad outcome, youll learn from
it, Dr. Badruddin said as her
voice grew emotional.
In 2014, the Empathy and
Relational Science Program at
Massachusetts General Hospital conducted an analysis of several studies, which investigated
measures designed to improve
health professionals relationships with patients.
The report concluded that
positive interactions between
the health care professionals
and patients can have as much
benefit as taking a daily aspirin
to prevent a heart attack.
Breast cancer patient Julie
Galbraith, 56, also knows firsthand how vital it is to have that
positive and friendly relationship. In fact, she worked with a
team of doctors from the time
her cancer was discovered until
See RELATIONSHIP, 7

Above: Erasmo De La Rosa (left) accepts


a recognition from Kris Hungate, cardiovascular care coordinator at Christus
Spohn Hospital Shoreline, during a reunion
Feb. 27 of patients who underwent a heart
valve procedure and their care team at
Christus Spohn Hospital Shoreline.
Rachel Denny clow/calleR-Times file

Left: Dr. Travis Thompson (from left), Julie


Galbraith and Dr. Emile Salloum. Galbraith
went in for a routine mammogram as a
part of her annual exam with Dr. Kathleen
Rasmussen and breast cancer was
discovered. Galbraith worked with a team
of doctors from the time her cancer was
discovered until her remission.
conTRiBUTeD PhoTo

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

RELATIONSHIP
from 6

CAL491716

her remission.
I think the relationships
were key. They gave me the
confidence to get through treatment, Galbraith said.
After a routine mammogram showed a problem area,
Galbraith said it was her obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Kathleen Rasmussen who sent her
to surgeons, radiologists, and
pathologists. They worked as a
team in Galbraiths care.
In my experience, they were
able to meet me where I was.
God put me in the right place at
the right time, Galbraith said.
Dr. Rasmussen said she and
Galbraith have a good relationship and have known each other
for some time. The doctor said
the power of the mind and mutual trust are the most important elements for the patient to
heal successfully.

Health Care Heroes

So much of
healing depends on
that relationship.
You have to feel the
physician is there
for you.
Dr. Kathleen Rasmussen,
obstetrician-gynecologist

So much of healing depends


on that relationship. You have
to feel the physician is there for
you, Dr. Rasmussen said.
She stressed the importance
of the doctor and patient working as a teams and partners in
treatment rather than the paternalistic relationships of the
past.
Galbraith said she never felt
rushed by Dr. Rasmussen or by
any of her other doctors.
I had confidence in the
whole team, she said.

Rachel Denny clow/calleR-Times file

Ray Martinez (from left), territory manager for Edwards Life Science, and Crystal Moseley, clinical coordinator of cardiovascular services
at Christus Spohn Hospital Shoreline, talk with Evelyn Nicol and Ed Shackelford during a reunion Feb. 27 of patients who underwent a
heart valve procedure and their care team at Christus Spohn Hospital Shoreline. Nicol was the first patient and Shackelford the 20th to
undergo the procedure.

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Dental Excellence in
Health Care Award

Honors a dentist such as General Dentistry,


Cosmetic Dentistry, Orthodontics, Endodontics,
Periodontics, etc. whose performance is considered exemplary by patients and peers.

Dr. Tilman Richards


GENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Richards is upbeat and friendly. He


tells you what needs to be done and how
he will do it. He makes you feel at ease
(being I am a bit scared of dentists, its
not easy). While he is working on your
teeth, he makes sure that you dont feel
any pain and is very informative at what
he is about to do. Dr Richards office staff
is awesome as well.
Nominated by: Shirley Martin

Dr. Vincent Morin Jr.

Dr. Charles H. Moore

GENERAL DENTISTRY

GENERAL DENTISTRY

Dr. Charles Moore has a very compassionate heart and takes the
time to get acquainted with his patients when they come in for scheduled dental work. He is caring, explains procedures very clearly, offers
options and devotes a lot of time to creating relationships.
He has a good rapport with children and sets them at ease. His passion
for good dental care has carried over into mission trips he has taken to
various countries, providing equipment, supplies and dental work at no
expense.
He is very thorough in promoting dental health and regular dental
check-ups. Dr. Moore always has a smile on his face; and enjoys his
work.
Nominated by: Ruth G. Aipperspach

His passion for good dental care has


carried over into mission trips he has taken
to various countries, providing equipment,
supplies and dental work at no expense.
Ruth G. Aipperspach

I want everyone to know that I have the


best dentist anyone could hope for. Dr.
Morins office is so amazing and his staff is
so incredible they actually make my dental
experiences pleasant.
Dr. Morin is very professional, thorough
and nice. He is very patient and answers all
my questions. I never have to spend hours
in the waiting room because he never overbooks his patients. He makes sure he has
plenty of time for each patient and never
rushes anything.
I have always heard stories about the pain
my friends suffer with their procedures, but
with Dr. Morin I have had several dental
issues but I never experienced any pain. I
will continue to trust Dr. Morin with my
dental health in a totally anxiety-free environment.
I really love to smile and want to do so
without any worries, and Dr. Morin helps
make it happen.
Nominated by: Connie V. Hinojosa

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Administrative Excellence
in Health Care Award

Health Care Heroes

Honors a health care staff member or manager


who provides outstanding customer service,
assistance and extra-special care and whose
performance and leadership are considered
exemplary by patients and peers

Maribel Ochoa

NURSE MANAGER, CHRISTUS SPOHN MEMORIAL


Maribel has demonstrated the core values we hold high in our organization:
Dignity in demonstrating respect in her staff and patients. Assisting in helping the
underserved and any special concerns.
Her patient satisfaction in the unit has been the highest in the hospital. Integrity
in that her staff trusts that she will be behind them when they are in need, such as
help with staffing, and any concerns that they or the patients may need.
(She has) excellence in expecting best practices from her staff and demonstrating
the standards that need to be completed. (She uses) compassion every day with all
she does for her staff and the community in which we serve. (She exhibits) stewardship in making sure the staff and patients have what is needed to better serve
each role.
Maribel has demonstrated over the months high standards in patient care, safety,
quality outcomes, and has grown as a leader. We are very proud to have her on our
team and appreciate all she has done for our patients and associates.
Nominated by: Deborah DeAlejandro

EXCELLENCE,
EVERY DAY

Congratulations

Charles W. Breckenridge M.D.


Sports Medicine, Arthroscopy, Shoulder & Knee Surgery

on your nomination as a
Health Care Hero!
(361) 854-0811

CAL491709

SouthTexasBoneAndJoint.com

CAL491709

Find a
home now!

Point, click and choose...


from local real estate.

What began as a small Texas energy business 34 years ago is now the worlds largest
independent rener, an international manufacturer and marketer of transportation fuels,
other petrochemical products and power. As an industry leader in America and abroad,
Valero is proud to employ 10,500 hard-working individuals with incredible dedication.
At Valero, career development and training are not just initiatives.
They are part of how we do business every day.
The end result is excellence in every way.
10,500 Employees 16 Refineries 11 Ethanol Plants 7,300 Branded Wholesale Sites
Unlimited Opportunities

For more information about Valero visit www.valero.com

CAL467057

601 Texan Trail, 3rd Floor


Corpus Christi, Texas 78411

10

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Administrative Excellence
in Health Care Award
Jane Dykes

GUEST HOUSE COORDINATOR, CHRISTUS SPOHN SHORELINE


Jane is the Coordinator of The Kieschnick Guest House at Spohn Shoreline. The Kieschnick House provides the family of hospital patients a place
to stay while their loved ones are in the hospital. The job of the guesthouse
is to provide a home away from home.
Jane has the job of seeing to this guesthouse. But, it is not a job to her, it is a mission. Jane does all the day to day operations
of the house. But it is not just the day to day
operations that make her a hero.
From the time you walk into the guesthouse, her mission begins. Jane takes such
care to make each person feel at ease, asks
about our family members and asks What
can I do to make things easier for you?
She sets your mind at ease and calms and
soothes you. Before you know it, you feel at
home.
When I say day to day operations, it
encompasses quite a lot. She always puts
peoples comfort rst. I have seen her cleaning rooms, feeding people, helping people
with laundry, visiting the patients in the hospital and praying with us. All
of this in addition to her day to day job duties.
My husband has been hospitalized 18 times at Shoreline. Without Janes
help, I doubt I could function. She is my safety net, I can call her cellphone
and she is there to welcome me. One time I called her at 11 p.m. and, sure
enough, she came to greet me and give me a room.
My husband was hospitalized for Easter and Christmas last year. It is
tough when you have to spend holidays at the hospital. It was made easier
by Janes efforts. I came to the house after a long day at the hospital on Easter Sunday. I went to my room and on the bed was a beautiful Easter Basket
made by Jane. It touched my heart dearly. At Christmas, Jane decorated
each of our room doors.
While Jane works tirelessly for our comfort she also serves the community in many ways. Her efforts with the homeless shelter, pet rescue
and toy drives for the community. She even involves her co-workers in her
efforts to help the community. With health care changing every day it is
comforting to have someone like Jane that cares and puts people rst.
Heroes dont always wear capes, sometimes they just wear a name tag
that says I CARE, I AM HERE FOR YOU!
Nominated by: Susan Harper

Honors a health care staff member or manager


who provides outstanding customer service,
assistance and extra-special care and whose
performance and leadership are considered
exemplary by patients and peers

Debra Townzen

ADMISSIONS MANAGER,
CHARLIES PLACE RECOVERY CENTER
Debbie is a tireless advocate for the patients
we serve. Most of those entering our doors are
very sick and denitely not in the best of moods,
but she always has
a smile and kind
word for them.
She has trained
her staff to do the
same.
Addiction treatment is not a pretty part of health
care, and most of
our patients have
very little support
when they enter
treatment. Debbie
provides support
and love and gives
hope for a better
future to each person she speaks to.
Debbies job is quite stressful. She is responsible for keeping the facility full and scheduling
all admissions, seven days per week. Her phone
rings at all hours of the day and night with calls
from those seeking help.
In 15 years, I have never heard her speak rudely
to a patient or family member. She also manages
our wait list, which can be six to eight weeks. She
is able to keep patients on the wait list motivated
and to not give up on receiving help.
Throughout her career, Debbie has worked in
a number of different departments throughout
the agency, so when we are short-handed, she is
always there to offer support. Debbie gives selflessly to patients and staff. Her positive attitude,
exemplary work ethic, and willingness to be a
true servant leader demonstrate excellence and
set the standard for other staff on a daily basis.
Nominated by: Amy Granberry

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Nurses Excellence
in Health Care Award

11

Honors an individual from the nursing eld


such as RN, LPN, CNA whose performance is
considered exemplary by patients and peers.

Mary Smithwick

SCHOOLNURSE/LVN,CCISD/SOLOMONCOLESHIGHSCHOOL

Mary Smithwick is a highly productive nurse at this


time at Solomon M. Coles H.S. and Teen Mother School.
She is very diligent in comprehensive care for more than
400 students, including teen age mothers and their babies.
We at Coles know the major impact her nursing work
makes. She is and has been in nursing for 30 years. She
attended the LVN program at Del Mar College. Her rst
job was at Doctors Hospital where she worked at different oors, and she received much experience from having worked the different oors with different medical
illnesses.
After working at Doctors Hospital for eight years she
went on to work at the Nueces Health Department, where she administered immunizations to children attending school, and after ve years was hired to work at Ray
High School. She worked at Ray for 10 years and transferred to Coles. Mary plans to
stay at Coles until she retires and says she loves it here at Coles. She feels very blessed
to be working with such a wonderful caring staff that she considers as family.
Nominated by: Dr. Gloria Scott

Michelle Weston

RN, CHRISTUS SPOHN CANCER CENTER

Michelle Weston, registered nurse for Christus Spohn


Cancer Center, took excellent care of my twin sister, Jeanette Marie Gutierrez for four years and ve months. On
Jan. 20 my sister turned for the worse after radiation and
chemo treatment.
Michelle called the paramedics to rush Jeanette to the
Christus Spohn Emergency Room. Jeanette was admitted to Christus Spohn Hospital. On Jan. 27 Jeanette was
to be released but she experienced difficulty breathing
and very high heart rate. Michelle Weston just happened
to be visiting Jeanette when she went in distress. Jeanette was transferred to the critical unit for a couple of
days and then went home to my parents for hospice care. My twin sister passed away
Feb. 3.
Before Jeanette was diagnosed with her terminal illness, her career was as a certied
medical assistant and graduated with honors. She worked at Texas A&M and cared
for her patients. Jeanette knew the special kind of care Michelle demonstrated
to her cancer patients. Michelle has compassion, care and love for her patients.
All comes from her heart. Jeanette loved Michelle. I strongly nominate Michelle
Weston. God Bless ALL our Health Care Heroes.
Nominated by: Janet Marie Saenz

Health Care Heroes

Kris Hungate

CARDIOVASCULAR CARE COORDINATOR, RN PCCNCMC, CHRISTUS SPOHN HEALTH SYSTEM


Kristine Hungate has been a registered
nurse for over three decades with the majority of those years
caring for the
patients with
cardiac / cardiovascular disease.
Her nursing
background runs
from bedside
nurse, to charge
nurse to patient
and nursing educator. She is now
the Chest Pain
Center and Cardiovascular Care
coordinator for
Christus Spohn Health System with numerous
responsibilities.
Her greatest joy is the opportunity to educate the public on heart disease, prevention
and intervention. On a daily basis, Kristine
works to educate staff at Christus Spohn, but
frequently she is a guest lecturer. Her presentation, When the Heart Attacks, teaches
people to understand the fundamentals and
the beauty of their heart, all it does, what
happens when distress signs and symptoms
appear and, most importantly, what they need
to do.
I have attended her classes and observed
how her passionate speeches encourage individuals to be aware of heart attack warning
signs and distress signals. Each person seems
to grasp the information and feel empowered
with the knowledge that they could save a coworker, neighbor or love-one. Kris saves lives
she is truly a healing hero.
Nominated by: Linda Rider Arnold

12

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Community
Outreach Award

Honors a company or organization that reached


out of its normal sphere of operation to focus
attention on a health care issue or help solve a
community problem.

Mission of Mercy

Mission of Mercy restores dignity and Healing


Through Love at mobile clinics, providing free
health care and assistance with medications with
a 40-foot medical RV.
They provide health care to uninsured and
underinsured working families at ve clinic sites
in Corpus Christi, Robstown, Flour Bluff and
Orange Grove. In one year they record more
than 3,000 patient visits, operate 72 clinic days,
assist patients in
acquiring prescription medications, and raised
over $470,000
for operating
expenses.
Other important services
provided through a collaboration with Christus
Spohn included six u shot clinics.
Mission of Mercy accomplishes this through
professional and lay volunteers who donate their
time and skills. Physician volunteers often sign
up to work at the same clinic each month, allowing for development of a strong doctor/patient
relationship. There are 116 lay and professional
volunteers who donate time and services to Mission of Mercy patients including doctors, physician assistants, nurse practitioners and nurses.
Other volunteers include interpreters, registration workers, hospitality workers, drivers and
data entry personnel.
Mission of Mercy would not be able to provide no-cost medical care without collaboration
from a wide range of community partners. These
include an array of medical specialists, hospital and private laboratories and pharmaceutical companies. Thanks to our volunteer-based,
physician-centered model of service, Mission of
Mercy is able to treat large numbers of patients
in a dignied and comprehensive manner with a
small paid staff.
Nominated by: Sherry Bowers

Victor Betancourt

Gabriel Lucido

Kid Get Fit Movement / V Fit Training Center


FOUNDED BY VICTOR BETANCOURT AND GABRIEL LUCIDO
Victor Betancourt and Gabriel
Lucido, owners and operators
of V Fit, a local tness company,
have made it their mission to help
people. Clients over the years have
put their lives in the hands of Betancourt and Lucido to make changes;
to live healthier lifestyles; and to
stay alive. They focus on a holistic
approach to wellness beyond the
gym.
They personally invest in the lives
of their clients, and they work outside normal business parameters
to make sure that the people who
come to them for help can get help,
regardless of their nancial situation.
Two years ago, they took a leap
of faith and started a program with
the mission to help kids ght diabetes. At no charge, they started
working with the Boys & Girls Club
a few days a week to get them moving. Their consistent efforts and

personal investment have grown to


include over 125 kids, yoga classes
and a running club. Their passion to
help youngsters ght to stay healthy
started the Kids Get Fit Movement,
a non-prot organization that targets children who have been identied by physicians as high-risk, prediabetes individuals and kids who
come from low income households.
Their work, which started as a
volunteer effort to a local afterschool program, has turned into a
gift to the Coastal Bend community
that challenges everyone to make
the future for the kids of our city
healthy and free of diabetes.
Nominated by: Omar Lopez

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Community
Outreach Award

13

Honors a company or organization that reached


out of its normal sphere of operation to focus
attention on a health care issue or help solve a
community problem.

Carmen Arias

RADIOLOGY ASSOCIATES

Carmen Arias knows the breast cancer statistics are sobering one in eight women
will get it in her lifetime and the only way to beat it is to educate the public about early
detection.
Day in and day out, the Radiology Associates Marketing Director has been on a mission to impart the importance of annual mammograms to both women and the men who
love them. Carmens S mantra she shocks, shares, and makes you stop and think and
hopefully schedule a mammogram.
Time after time, Carmen has come up with in-your-face, eye-catching initiatives to get
her point across, remembered and recalled. Fueled by a deep dedication to a healthier
Coastal Bend, Carmens creativity is boundless while her non-traditional vehicles are
impactful reaching tens of thousands every year.
Operation Empty Pink Chair had 200 empty chairs strategically placed in unexpected
places such as businesses, neighborhoods, intersections and rural locales. All were different wooden, plastic, soft material but all were comfortable, familiar places that a
mom, grandmother, aunt, sister or friend used to sit in while they lived their diverse lives
before breast cancer took them.
Pink Ladies ladies covered head to toe in spandex, seven in pink, one
in white to uniquely illustrate breast cancers statistics. The group hit
local events and high traffic locales with their off-beat approach making
the numbers very real. The anonymous spandex faces put every woman in
the statistic resonating It could easily be you.

Carmen Arias

Nominated by: Deborah Perry

all the Health Care Heroes at


Thank you toAlameda
Oaks Nursing Center!

Carmen P. Arias
ias

Alameda Oaks is a post-acute facility offering a special


level of care tailored to individual goals and needs.

361.882.2711

O N YO U R N O M I N AT I O N A S A

Health Care Hero!

We are proud of you for all you do for the health and
wellness of thousands of Coastal Bend residents.

Choose Radiology Associates. Its your choice.


Follow Us!

CAL487349

CAL487327

We are a team of health


care professionals,
including rehabilitation
specialists, offering
skilled nursing services to our patients and
their families to ensure their goals for recovery
are achieved.

Director of Marketing

14

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Health Care
Professional Award

Honors a health care provider other than doctors and nurses such
as home health provider, pharmacist, rst responders, EMTs, social
worker, hospital department staff, physicians assistant, dental assistant, radiologist, lab technician and physical therapist whose
performance is considered exemplary by patients and peers.

Frank Montoya

FIREFIGHTER/PARAMEDIC, CORPUS CHRISTI FIRE DEPARTMENT


Frank is a 20-plus-year paramedic with the Corpus Christi Fire Department.
After 20 years of providing emergency medical services to the citizens of Corpus
Christi, he continues to exhibit professionalism at the highest level and is looked up
to by many of the younger paramedics he mentors.
He has been at one of the busiest EMS stations in the country for over 14 years and
never complains. He provides exceptional care to those with both emergent and nonemergent issues.
Frank always smiles and communicates compassion to and for his patients. He is
more deserving of this award than anyone I have seen in my 26 years as a CCFD reghter.
Frank does not complain, he adapts and nd solutions to whatever problem occurs
and is a patients No. 1 advocate regardless of what the issue is or the time of day
called, he is always there to help.
Frank Montoya is the best of the best of what the Corpus Christi Fire Department
has to offer.

Nominated by: Randy Paige

Congratulations
Norma Garcia, LVN
Would like to congratulate
Norma Garcia, LVN, of The Palms Nursing and
Rehabilitation, L.P., in Corpus Christi, Texas, has been
nominated Healthcare Hero for 2015 by a member of the
community. She and all the nominees will be honored at
a luncheon with other members of the health care community.
Norma began her nursing career at Spohn Hospital in 1973
and from there worked for physicians in the community until
coming to The Palms in 1992. She has served as charge nurse,
and is currently the MDS Coordinator.
As MDS Coordinator, she assesses residents and
coordinates residents care to assure they receive the highest
quality of care and the maximum benefits available to them
from our facility and staff as well as resources available in the
community. She works closely with their families to meet
the residents and familys needs. Norma enjoys the beach,
being outdoors, traveling, and most of all spending time with
her family. The Palms is honored to have Norma Garcia as part
of our team.
CAL491674
The Palms Nursing and Rehabilitation, L.P.
5607 Everhart Rd. Corpus Christi, TX 78411

(361) 854-4601

and all the


Coastal Bend
Health Care
Heroes!

Crocker Moving & Storage Co. Family Owned for 4 Generations


361-884-3511 www.crockermoving.com
TxDMV No. 005588650C US DOT No. 136518

CAL486939

Find a
home now!

Point, click and choose...


from local real estate.

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Health Care Heroes

15

Former First Lady Laura


W. Bush leaves a news
briefing about the
Texas Tech University
Health Sciences Center
Laura W. Bush Institute
for Womens Health.
She later delivered
an address to about
600 Corpus Christi
residents during an
institute luncheon at
the American Bank
Center. She told
women to protect their
own health. Women
are so busy, taking care
of everyone else, making sure their husbands
and their children
and their parents are
healthy that they might
neglect their own
health, Bush said.
CALLER-TIMES FILE PHOTO

Laura Bush institute


Bridges gaps in heaLth
Specific
approach
for
women
sought

Former First Lady Laura Bush is devoting a lot of her life after the White House
to improving health care for women in
America and around the world.
She visited Corpus Christi last month
to share her work through the Laura W.
Bush Institute for Womens Health. The
former first lady also joked about life back
in Texas, where her husband, George W.,
is adjusting to life without a White House
staff.
At a news conference before her luncheon, Laura Bush spoke about her focus
on womens health issues and her con-

nection with the Texas Tech University


Health Sciences Center.
Weve done these lunches for women
in many of those cities so Im especially
thrilled now to be in Corpus., Bush said.
More than 600 people (at) luncheon so
they can hear about the special needs of
women and womens health and the great
work thats being done across our state by
the Laura Bush Institute.
The multi-campus womens health institute has a presence in Amarillo, El Paso,
Lubbock, San Angelo and the Permian
Basin.

The Corpus Christi luncheon, at the


American Bank Center, was organized
and championed by Gloria Hicks, a
member of the Laura W. Bush Institute
for Womens Health National Advisory
Board and a partner in the Ed Hicks family
of dealerships.
Angela D. Knapp Eggers, interim executive director, said the institute is fortunate to have former First Lady Laura Bush
as our namesake; endorsing five campuses
of the Texas Tech University Health SciSee Q&A, 18

16

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Health Care
Professional Award

Honors a health care provider other than doctors and nurses such
as home health provider, pharmacist, rst responders, EMTs, social
worker, hospital department staff, physicians assistant, dental assistant, radiologist, lab technician and physical therapist whose
performance is considered exemplary by patients and peers.

Brian Cornejo

PHYSICAL THERAPIST, CHRISTUS SPOHN HEALTH SYSTEM


After a stroke or brain injury, many patients are unable to express themselves. I am writing this nomination on behalf of those patients who have
been blessed to work with Brian Cornejo, a doctor of Physical Therapy,
during their recovery.
With specic therapy comes specic outcomes. Physical Therapy
should be very specic, and Brian is inquisitive and carefully considers
patients individual differences and needs. Brian makes every effort to
keep his professional skills and knowledge current.
In addition to taking time to learn the latest techniques for treating
stroke and brain injury, Brian is also a Certied wound care specialist.
During every patient encounter he sets an example for all of those around
him to maintain a high level of professionalism. He provides critical neurological impairment specic mentorship of Physical Therapy students
and new staff.
The Coastal Bend is lucky to have such an awesome physical therapist.
Nominated by: Geneva Kaplan

Patricia Ann Garcia

MAMMOGRAPHER, BAY AREA BREAST CENTER


I met Patricia many years ago as a fellow employee at a local hospital X-ray
department for many years. Later we married, so Ive known her from an
employee view as well as husband.
Patricias work ethic and compassion for her patients and fellow employee
is constant and endless and the patient always comes rst. I remember
patients telling me as they get their CT scan done what a wonderful tech she
is.
There are so many stories to tell and not enough words available. When
she is asked for help, her rst response is yes when most people will ask
With what? Always eager to teach the new students coming through the
department. Pat will come home from work so happy because one of her
patients stopped by to say hello. Lucky for me that happens a lot so shes
always in a good mood.
A friend passed away and at the funeral the minister tells this story of
compassion and helping hands. After the funeral Patricia is talking to friends
and the minister asked her if she liked the story, its about you. I go over to a
friends house that was at the funeral and rather than saying hello Im greeted with Your wife is a saint. God only knows? But what I do know is I am a
lucky man, and so is anyone fortunate get her as their tech.
Nominated: Ronnie L. Garcia

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Health Care Heroes

Panel of judges

Choosing winners
tough task for panel
By Anissa Hernandez
Special to the Caller-Times

NANCY WESSON-DODD
President/CEO YWCA

TONY ELIZONDO
Vice president of Satellite Operations,
Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas

BALDEMAR GARCIA JR.


H-E-B pharmacy trainer,
Gulf Coast/border

TERESA RODRIGUEZ
President and CEO, Corpus Christi
Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

CATRINA WILSON
President and CEO,
United Way of the Coastal Bend

If they could, the judges would unanimously award all Health Care Hero nominees an
award.
It was a tough choice just picking one
winner in each of the six categories of the
Corpus Christi Caller-Times annual Health
Care Heroes program. However, one winner
will be revealed during the award banquet
on Tuesday.
The community panel of judges this
year included Nancy Wesson-Dodd, president/CEO YWCA; Tony Elizondo, vice
president of Satellite Operations Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas; Baldemar
Garcia, Jr., H-E-B pharmacy trainer Gulf
Coast/border; Teresa Rodriguez, president and CEO Corpus Christi Hispanic
Chamber of Commerce; and Catrina Wilson, president and CEO United Way of the
Coastal Bend.
The judges were asked to read each nominees packets, which included a letter from
their nominator.
I was humbled as I read about how far
above and beyond these health care providers go to provide the best care and services
possible, said Wesson-Dodd.
The program is hosted by the CallerTimes, presented by the Christus Spohn
Health System and sponsored by H-E-B, TLC
Complete Care and Valero.
I am proud of all the applicants, Elizondo said. They are all well deserving for the
traits they possess, including knowledge,
compassion, empathy, listener and communicator.
The program, in its third year, honors
those who have a purpose: To help, heal, comfort and save lives. They put others before
themselves; see problems and solve them.
They are individuals and organizations who
truly make a difference in the health and wellbeing of our community.
Garcia works in the health care profession
and every day deals with patients and understands his skill sets are very critical to their

health and well being.


There are many health care heroes out
there making huge impacts on people, communities and the world, Garcia said. To be
a health care professional is about unconditional giving, serving, caring and educating.
Its also about the ability to be lifted in spirit
by giving of oneself without wanting something in return.
Wilson has been on the judging panel before and said its been humbling to read about
each nominee.
It reminds me that there is a whole team
that works together for quality health care,
Wilson said. Its not just the physician but
also the nurses, nurse assistants, radiologists, etc., who serve in different capacities
that help produce a positive outcome for each
patient.
There are lots of wonderful health care
providers, she said. Its a lot more than
training that makes them a health care
hero; it really has to do with whats in their
heart.
Rodriguez was honored to be a panel
judge for the rst time. She also said it was
humbling to read about the nominees and
how they make a difference in other peoples
lives.
I noticed that all of the nominees are not
just working, but they are really dedicated in
making other peoples lives better, Rodriguez said. And one can see how much they
are beloved from their patients, families, and
colleagues.
Rodriguez said it is very important to recognize those who work in the health care
eld.
When you publicly recognize people who
are outstanding in their elds, we are not only
thanking them for what they do but, in turn,
they will inspire others to follow their examples, Rodriguez said.
It was really hard to choose only one in
each category because you are leaving the
other two behind, she said. I can say that
all of the nominees deserve the award and,
no matter who wins, Ill give them all a big
round of applause.

17

18

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

We have funded 84 research projects, stimulated 44


scholarly works and three National Institutes of Health grants
with more than $1.7 million. We have also hosted more than 75
community events with approximately 20,000 attendees and
used more than 1,500 volunteers across Texas.
Q&A

from 15
ences Center.
She supports the mission of the institute with her
name, guidance and presence at events when possible, Knapp Eggers said. Our vision reflects her
own advocacy; especially when it comes to serving
the women of the West Texas area.
Here is a question and answer explaining more
about Bushs work:

Differences matter is a big part


of the institutes mission. explain
what that means when it comes
to womens health care anD
meDicine as a whole?
If we think outside the current medical approach
and consider womens health as those health issues
specific to women such as pregnancy and menopause,
mens health as those health issues specific to men
such as prostate and testicular cancer, it becomes
quickly apparent that the majority of all other health
issues are shared by both men and women, or in other
words sex and gender health.

what is genDer
baseD meDicine?

National clinical guidelines for hypertension, diabetes, heart failure, asthma and many more conditions are based on a majority of research performed
in men and then applied to women. Gender differences are the key to bridging the gaps in womens
health. Did You Know there are 2.4 million bone
fractures in the U.S. each year due to osteoporosis?
Of these, 80 percent are women and 20 percent are
men. Yet men are more likely to die after a hip fracture and are less likely to be screened and treated
for osteoporosis. Did you also know that women
are less likely to be referred for cardiac procedures
and more likely to die from a cardiac event? Men
are less likely to undergo treatment for urinary incontinence, which is the No. 2 reason for nursing
home placement.

what are the institutes key


strategies for aDvancing
womens health?

We take the pivotal results from evidence-based


research and apply it to innovative educational components like Continuing Medical Education modules

and college curriculum that ultimately enable both


practicing health care providers and medical students to know the difference, which is paramount
to personalized health care. In addition, we use our
knowledge and networks to spread the message nationwide through community outreach events.

what are some of the institutes


early successes?

We have funded 84 research projects, stimulated


44 scholarly works and three National Institutes of
Health grants with more than $1.7 million. We have
also hosted more than 75 community events with
approximately 20,000 attendees and used more than
1,500 volunteers across Texas.

how is the institute for womens


health influencing the eDucation
of future meDical professionals?

With our Y Does X Make a Difference curriculum modules a first of its kind that will launch
in October in partnership with Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota.

what programming efforts


are unDerway to help younger
women?

We present our GiRL Power (Girls in Real Life)


programs in eight communities across West Texas,
providing key guides on bullying, Internet Safety,
self-esteem and self-improvement for young girls, as
well as a Girls Night Out Program in five communities for incoming freshmen girls on the college level
speaking on self-esteem, date rape, alcohol prevention, nutrition and exercise. (Similar programming
is being consider for Corpus Christi)

what key research efforts


were coorDinateD through the
institute for womens health?

Of the 84-plus research studies we have funded


with seed grant awards, one of them on green tea
and tai chi for womens health has garnered millions of dollars in NIH funding and been featured
in USA Today, NBC News, Womans World, Eating
Well, The Washington Post, Reuters, Atlantic, etc.
There are more than 11 million websites who also
listed the study in the past year. Ongoing research in
Alzheimers disease, alcohol addiction, osteoporosis,
ovarian and breast cancer continue to provide monumental evidence-based results. We are also currently
providing seed funding for a study on the differences

GABE HERNANDEZ/CALLER-TIMES

Former First Lady Laura Bush is devoting a lot of her life to improving
health care for women, and she visited Corpus Christi last month
to share her work through the Laura W. Bush Institute for Womens
Health.

between men and women in lung cancer.

is the institute for womens


health improving access to
health care anD screening in
texas?

Absolutely! Our CPRIT grant (Cancer Prevention


and Research Institute of Texas) program called Access to Breast Cancer for West Texas or ABC4WT
has screened nearly 17,000 women and diagnosed 54
breast cancers with $4.47 million in grant funding.
These services are saving lives all across West Texas
many of them in women who would not have otherwise sought out the screening or extended services.

what is laura bushs institute


message to women in texas?

Take care of yourself first, since the majority


of medical services are provided for women, who
make up 80 percent of medical appointments and
services. Taking care of your own health enables
you to then care for your family. Make a list of questions and know how to engage your physician for
personalized care just for you dont be afraid to
ask questions.
For more information, visit www.laurabushinstitute.org.
Sources: Former First Lady Laura W. Bush and Angela D. Knapp Eggers, interim executive
director of the Laura W. Bush Institute for Womens Health.

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Health Care Heroes

List of Nominees
Administrative Excellence
in Health Care Award
Maribel Ochoa, nurse manager, Christus
Spohn Memorial
Alison Gratzel, oncology manager, Christus
Spohn Cancer Center
Jane Dykes, guesthouse coordinator, Christus
Spohn Shoreline
Debra Townzen, admissions manager,
Charlies Place Recovery Center
Suzanne Roddel, assistant nurse manager,
Christus Spohn Health System
Cynthia Canchola, ofce manager, Dr.
Francisco Acebo
Dr. Srkanth Damaraju, cardiology, Coastal
Cardiology
Chris Miller, primary care services, Christus
Spohn Hospital Memorial
Angel Romero Jr., director, Advanced Clinical
Informatics

Physicians Excellence
in Health Care Award
Dr. Allyson Larkin, Christus Spohn Shoreline
Wound Care Center
Dr. Bill J. Albarado, physician
Dr. Robb F Sherron, family health physician,
Corpus Christi Family Medicine
Dr. Jonathan Martin, Corpus Christi Family
Medicine Center
Dr. Julian Sanchez, cardiologist, Corpus
Christi Heart Clinic & Vascular Institute
Dr. Mark D. Rasmusson, internal medicine
specialist
Dr. Danny Dubberly, family physician,
Dubberly Medical Clinic
Dr. Jude M Aririguzo, internal medicine
Dr. Dan Martin, general surgeon, Surgical
Associates
Dr. Patricia A. Cantu, Oso Family Medicine
Dr. Runo H. Gonzalez, surgeon, Christus
Spohn Health System
Dr. Mario A Martinez, internal medicine
Dr. Raymond H. Graf Jr., cardiologist
Dr. Eric Madarang, Hospital Group of South
Texas
Dr. Crystal Garza, Hospitalist Group Of South
Texas
Dr. George Benavides, primary care
physician, Thomas Spann Clinic
Dr. William Burgin, Christus Spohn Hospital
Memorial-Primary Care Services
Dr. J. Richard Porter, Christus Spohn

Hospital-Primary Care Services


Dr. Marsha Allen, family physician, Health By
Design at Valero Corpus Christi Reneries
Dr. Osbert Blow, trauma surgery, Christus
Spohn Hospital
Dr. Kathleen Rasmussen, OB/GYN
Dr. Charles W Breckenridge, orthopedic
surgeon, South Texas Bone & Joint
Dr. Kathleen Soch, Christus Spohn Hospital
Dr. Jason C. Bradford, Alice Obstetrics and
Gynecology Associates
Dr. Bill Albarado, family physician
Dr. Jerome Lee Sang, physician
Dr. Lorraine S. Stehn, family practice

Dental Excellence
in Health Care Award
Dr. David W. Curtis, TMJ & Facial Pain Center,
P.A.
Dr. David Powell
Dr. Tilman Richards
Dr. Charles H. Moore
Dr. Roxanne G. Robertson, Star
Orthodontics
Dr. Vincent G. Morin Jr.
Dr. Roy Estringel
Dr. Cynthia A Casillas

Nurses Excellence
in Health Care Award
Donna Brown, RN, Christus Spohn Shoreline
Anissa Marlen Mitchell, RN, Bay Area NICU
Dr. Mary Jane Hamilton, College of Nursing
dean, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi
Omar Velasquez, LVN, Fersinueus Medical
Care
Sharon Y. Gray, RN, Corpus Christi Medical
Center
Erica Sanchez, RN, Christus Spohn Alice
Connie Borgfeld, RN, Bay Area Medical
Center
Patricia Villegas, RN, Christus Spohn
Shoreline
Bonnie Ross, nurse practitioner
Mark Stephen Santos, RN, Christus Spohn
Shoreline
Cynthia Malowitz, nurse practitioner/owner,
Bay Area Quick Care
Kris Hungate, RN/cardiovascular care
coordinator, Christus Spohn Health System
Linda Rodriguez, RN, Christus Spohn Health
System

Mary C. Smithwick, LVN, Corpus Christi


Independent School District-Solomon M. Coles
Lisa Spencer, RN/respiratory therapist,
Driscoll Childrens Hospital
Michelle Weston, RN, Spohn Cancer Center
Genus Mosely, Christus Spohn Health System
Christina Morales, LVN, Saint Peters Home
Health

Health Care
Professional Award
Frank Montoya, reghter/paramedic,
Corpus Christi Fire Department
Richard Alonzo, medical social worker,
Nurses on Wheels
Ralph Hoffman, therapist, Christus Spohn
Hospital Shoreline
Ramiro Gamboa, radiology technician/
operating room, Christus Spohn Hospital
Shoreline
Shawn McGrew, respiratory therapist,
Corpus Christi Medical Center
Norma Garcia, The Palms Nursing &
Rehabilitaion Center
Richard Alonzo, social worker, Nurses on
Wheels
Harris Ashley, activity therapy, Bayview
Behavioral Hospital
Brian Cornejo, physical therapist, Christus
Spohn Health System
Dana Lechner, re captain, Corpus Christi Fire
Department
Enrique Cruz, orthopedic technologist,
Christus Spohn Hospital Memorial
Patricia Ann Garcia, mammographer, Bay
Area Breast Center
Dyann Young, lab technician

Community Outreach Award


Mission of Mercy
Belinda Carrillo, supervisor, Community
Health
Citgo Rening
Victor Betancourt and Gabriel Lucido,
founders, Kid Get Fit movement and 501(3) V Fit
Training Center
Terry Mills, National Association for the
Advancement of Colored People
Mission FitPossible
Coastal Cardiology Association
Carmen Arias, marketing director, Radiology
Associates

19

CAL438359

20

Health Care Heroes

Thursday, April 9, 2015 Caller-Times

Das könnte Ihnen auch gefallen