Garcia gets Thorpe Award

Alexis Barker
NLJ Reporter
 
Rita Garcia started working at the hospital when Weston County Health Services still delivered babies and performed surgeries. After 16 years, her hard work has been recognized. On Nov. 3, Garcia received the Dr. Thorpe Caring for Mankind Award at Weston County Health Service’s recognition banquet. 
Garcia started working in the dietary department in 2002 before transferring to the housekeeping department the next year. She has remained in that department for 15 years, cleaning the hospital and performing other duties. 
During her time at Weston County Health Services, Garcia has been dedicated, friendly and consistent, according to Angela Phillips, her department supervisor. 
“She cares so much for our patients/residents and their well-being, and it shows in the work she does,” CEO Maureen Cadwell said, during her announcement of the award. “One nominator stated, ‘She does the job well, always has a smile and kind words for her co-workers and customers alike. She treats patients kindly with her adorable smile.’” 
Cadwell noted that the nominator said that whenever a patient is in need, Garcia alerts the appropriate staff. 
“She bends over backwards to help keep our customers very happy, and she does it humbly and without thinking twice,” Cadwell continued. “That is just who she is.” 
Another nominator, according to Cadwell, said that Garcia is always happy and willing to do anything for residents of the Manor or patients in the hospital. 
“Whatever people need, she will try to get, or to help,” Cadwell said. “She always keeps the patient, resident, their family and their personal comfort in the forefront of her mind.” 
Garcia, through her actions, tries to make everyone as comfortable as possible, Cadwell said. 
“Most of us know what it is like to be in a hospital. It’s scary, cold and impersonal,” Caldwell said. “With her actions, she tries to make them more comfortable by making sure their areas are clean and everyone’s needs are attended to.” 
She noted that Garcia is also extremely humble “with a smile on her face and dedication in her heart.” 
Garcia said she was surprised to hear her name announced for the award. Although nominated in the past, Garcia said, this is her first time she received the award. 
“I had tears running down my face. It really surprised me to get that award,” Garcia said. “There were others nominated, and I thought they would get picked.” 
The Dr. Thorpe Caring for Mankind Award recognizes an individual whose dedication and concern helps to improve Weston County Health Services. 
“The recipient should have a positive effect on other people, have made a significant contribution to the improvement of patient care (not necessarily in the area of direct patient care), whose day to day performance is dependable, consistent and people oriented, their contribution may be overshadowed because of personal humility and modesty, and who has demonstrated unusual concern for the welfare and happiness of patients and has performed extraordinary acts of kindness,” explained Cadwell.