Inessa Ustimovich has been recognized as the May winner of the Sunshine Program Award at UHS. The award is part of a program that acknowledges the exceptional care and contributions of non-licensed nursing support staff.
Inessa, a nursing assistant at Senior Living at Ideal, was nominated by a family member of a patient under her care. The family member shared the story of their 81-year-old mother-in-law who faced post-operative complications that left her bedridden and reduced her mobility. Upon arriving at Ideal for rehabilitation, the patient felt stressed and afraid until she met Inessa, who provided emotional support crucial to her recovery. The patient referred to Inessa as “her angel” for showing compassion and making her feel safe.
“Inessa built a relationship rooted in trust and empathy, and it was that trust that helped my mother-in-law take those first, crucial steps toward healing,” said the nominating family member. “With Inessa’s encouragement, she faced those fears and slowly began to reclaim her strength.”
The patient’s progress has been attributed not only to physical rehabilitation but also to the emotional support from Inessa. The nominator added, “She gave her comfort when she was most afraid, dignity when she felt most vulnerable, and hope when it felt out of reach.”
UHS encourages nominations for non-licensed support staff based on its values of Respect, Teamwork, Innovation, Trust, and Compassion. Nominations can be submitted via paper forms available at all UHS locations or electronically through email.
Each month one nominee receives special recognition while all nominees are acknowledged.
