Hospitality with a smile earns caregiver scholarship
Sandy Tucker was recently awarded the 2018 Jennifer Stratton Scholarship in recognition of how she embodies the organisation’s Values in her role as a member of St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital’s admissions team.
8 Mar 2018
8 March 2018
Sandy was selected for the genuine care, compassion and respect she demonstrates to everyone who walks through the hospital’s doors as a patient, visitor or employee.
The Jennifer Stratton Scholarship is an annual award open to St John of God Health Care’s 13,000 employees by nomination.
Sandy’s manager Tracey Chapman said her welcoming smile was a genuine reflection of her caring and compassionate nature, which she extends to all.
“First impressions are vitally important for any organisation and Sandy is an absolute asset to our hospital,” she said.
“Beyond the hospital Sandy also demonstrates the St John of God Health Care Values of Hospitality, Compassion and Respect in her personal life, having volunteered with Lifeline, Charity Link and as an unofficial carer for the last 40 years for a man with intellectual disabilities.”
As the 2018 Jennifer Stratton Scholarship recipient, Sandy will join a pilgrimage to retrace the sacred steps of the organisation’s namesake, Saint John of God.
Sandy, who has worked in the hospital’s admission team for more than 14 years, said she was overwhelmed when she learned she was this year’s winner.
“It is a real honour to earn this scholarship and to be recognised for doing a job I love,” she said.
“I think we have to walk in the shoes of our patients and put ourselves in their position where they may be overwhelmed and anxious about coming to hospital. I think a warm, welcoming smile can go a long way to reassuring them.”
St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital Chief Executive Officer Ms Chris Hanna congratulated Sandy on the scholarship.
“Sandy is such a worthy recipient of this scholarship as she understands the importance of all actions and behaviours and her positive and enthusiastic approach is infectious,” she said.
“She truly promotes living life to the full by always showing Hospitality, Respect and Compassion for everyone she meets.”
The scholarship takes the name of St John of God Health Care’s former long-serving Group Director of Mission, Jennifer Stratton.
Nominations are sought early each year and a recipient is chosen according to how well they demonstrate the Vision, Mission and Values of St John of God Health Care in their role.
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