MVH Announces the 2021 Cameos of Caring® Awardee
For some people, making others feel comfortable comes naturally to them. When Jody Collins, RN, was 16 years old, she felt a sense of peace in providing comfort to her terminally ill grandmother. It was that experience that made her want to help others in the best way possible - as a nurse. As a registered nurse caring for patients and their families on Monongahela Valley Hospital's Medical/Surgical/Rehabilitation units, she strives to make their experiences the best possible. For her dedication to patients, families and co-workers, Ms. Collins was named the 2021 Cameos of Caring Awardee at the Hospital's May 6 Cameos Breakfast. She was one of 12 distinguished MVH nurses who were nominated by their peers for this award.
"Being a nurse to me is the most satisfying job in the world because I get to help other people," Ms. Collins said. "Being a nurse gives me joy and happiness. I feel blessed that I am able to do this job and work with such caring professionals at Monongahela Valley Hospital."
In addition to sharing her love for nursing by encouraging others to consider the profession, Ms. Collins serves as a mentor for nursing students. At MVH, her peers look to her as a role model. From working closely with physicians to provide patients with the highest quality of care, to bringing in clothes for those in need and making it possible for patients to video chat with their loved ones during the COVID pandemic, Ms. Collins is continually observed going above and beyond for her patients and co-workers.
"Jody was nominated by her peers because she steps in and anticipates others' needs," said Sherry Watkins, MBA, MSN, RN, senior vice president of Nursing. "She shows excellent leadership skills and is a respected member of our nursing staff."
The other 2021 Cameos of Caring nominees include:
- Nicole Chiplaskey, BSN, RN, Cardiac Care Unit
- Joshua Clark, RN, Behavioral Health
- Leah Galiffa, RN, 6-East
- Lia Gallo, BSN, RN, Same Day Surgery
- Renee Keefer, RN, 4-PCU
- Casey Lawson, RN, Operating Room
- Amy Jo Lester, RN, Emergency Department
- Natasha Ousky, BSN, RN, ICU
- Tara Perry, RN, Cardiac Care Unit
- Allison Robich, BSN, RN, 6-West
- Meredith Terek, BSN, RN, 3-PCU
"Each of these nurses is very deserving of the award. I am delighted to work with these kind and knowledgeable nurses and more importantly proud to call them my friends."