October 6, 2009
A Friendship Retirement Community employee has been named outstanding certified nursing assistant of the year by the Virginia Health Care Association.
Deborah Johnson, a 23-year veteran, was cited for her demonstrated respect for residents and co-workers, personal ethics, leadership skills, mentoring, professionalism, flexibility and attendance.
"Her dedication to her facility is unsurpassed and she always represents her facility in a professional and loving manner and lifts the spirits of those around her," the association said in announcing the award. "To make sure everyone has the best life experience possible, she recently became one of Virginia's few CNAs to be palliative care certified. She is a 'go to' leader when dealing with difficult situations, and can always be counted on."
"Employees like Deborah are what make Friendship special," says Greg Dowdy, Administrator, Friendship Health and Rehab Center. "We're proud to have Deborah on our staff and honored that the state association for nursing facilities chose her from among hundreds of CNAs across Virginia."
Johnson recently presented a forum on CNA leadership at the American Health Care Association national convention. When she's not caring for residents at Friendship, Johnson is active in her community and church.