Peter Newman, Chair | Binghamton General Hospital
Peter Newman, Chair | Binghamton General Hospital
A program at UHS designed to honor the exceptional efforts of non-licensed nursing support staff continues to make a positive impact. Kaleigh Natoli has been named the winner of the Sunshine Program Award for January, and her dedication was celebrated with the presentation of the award and a bouquet of sunflowers.
Natoli, a Med Surg nursing assistant, was nominated by a colleague who witnessed an emotional moment involving a family whose relative had recently passed away under Natoli's care. The family expressed gratitude for the compassion Natoli showed, and they conveyed their thanks with hugs and words of appreciation.
Natoli shared a personal reflection, saying, "End of life is very important to me, and when I can help someone, it makes me love my job even more."
The nominating colleague praised the genuine kindness Natoli exhibited, stating, "It was truly a moving sight, and I know that the compassion that Kaleigh had displayed to that family was so human and beautiful. It came from her heart."
The Sunshine Program allows patients, families, and colleagues to nominate non-licensed support staff who embody UHS Values including Respect, Teamwork, Innovation, Trust, and Compassion. Nominations are welcomed via kiosks, boxes at UHS locations, email, and electronically.
Each month, nominees are recognized and one is selected for special acknowledgment.