An honorary section for the week of May 6, 2018 MESSENGER POST MEDIA
NATIONAL NURSES WEEK - May 6 through 12
A HEALTHY BOTTOM LINE
Nurses use knowledge, niches to create their own businesses
BY MELISSA ERICKSON | MORE CONTENT NOW
Many people think of nurses as followers: Doctors give orders
and nurses fulfill them. Today’s nurses know that way of
thinking is as old-fashioned as a mercury thermometer.
In great numbers, nurse entrepreneurs are moving beyond
the bedside, using their background in health care to build
nurse-owned professions and businesses.
“Nurses make great business owners,” said registered nurse
Donna Cardillo, president of DonnaCardillo.com and best
known as The Inspiration Nurse. Cardillo is an advocate for
nurses as business owners and often speaks at nursing events
on this topic. “We are intelligent, great problem solvers,
excellent communicators, creative, think on our feet and are
totally customer-service oriented. I’m proud to spread the
message of the positive impact we are having and all we can
do,” said Cardillo.
Similar qualities
One category of nurses, educators — for example, a nurse
who teaches CPR to the public — has always stepped out of
the traditional role of a hospital nurse, but now more nurses
are embracing the opportunity to use their knowledge
to advance their business careers, said Michelle Podlesni,
president of the National Nurses in Business Association.
Podlesni is a business expert for nurses in transition and the
author of “Unconventional Nurse: Going from Burnout to
Bliss!”
“In the 1970s, 70 percent of nurses worked in a traditional
(hospital) setting. Ten years ago, that number fell to 58
percent. There’s a trend toward entrepreneurship,” Podlesni
said.
The qualities that make a good nurse are often similar to
what makes a great businessperson, Podlesni said. For
example, “an entrepreneur is flexible; a nurse is adaptable,”
she said. Both are passionate and organized, accountable
and responsible and great record keepers.
“I want nurses to view their nursing license as a license to
do business, and that they are the business,” Podlesni said.
“There are unlimited opportunities for nurses in business
today, and the more nurses that are successful in the business
community will result in more nurses’ voices being heard.”
Success stories
A great example of a nurse using her skills away from the
I had the drive and determination — that can’t be taught. You have to have it if you want to start your own business.” — Donna Cardillo
Help us in celebrating the profession of nursing
and honor those who have so passionately
dedicated their lives to patient care.
bedside is Pat Iyer, a legal nurse consultant and author
who assists attorneys who handle medical malpractice and
personal injury cases. With experience in surgical nursing,
teaching and consulting and as an expert witness, Iyer’s work
evolved into her business. She sold her company in January.
“Communications and people skills are the backbone of
nursing, and that translates to business, too” Iyer said. “What
nurse entrepreneurs need to learn, though, are the realities
of running a business. The challenge is to have a sound
business idea and to structure it correctly. You want to take
a calculated risk, price your services carefully and make sure
your expenses don’t exceed your income.”
Working as a medical intensive care unit nurse at Allegheny
General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Anthony
Battaglia always wanted to own his own business.
“I had the drive and determination — that can’t be taught.
You have to have it if you want to start your own business,”
he said.
He also had hands-on knowledge of the products and
devices nurses use during their shifts — and thought about
how to improve them. Battaglia used his insight to create the
Pocket Nurse with a partner 20 years ago.
The original Pocket Nurse was a hard plastic case pocket
organizer that included gold plated-bandage scissors, a
hemostat and an integrated penlight. The start-up business
was able to pair with a big pharmaceutical company that
included Pocket Nurses as a giveaway. Today, Pocket Nurse
carries over 8,000 medical supply and education products,
although the original Pocket Nurse is no longer available.
Finding a niche is key to business success, and many nurses
do well capitalizing on their knowledge of fitness and
wellness. Lori “Minky” Radcliffe is a freelance fitness nurse
consultant who helps nurses build a program they can run
successfully themselves.
“If you have an idea, the first thing to do is see if anyone cares,”
Radcliffe said. “Talk to people and see if they are as excited
about it as you are. You’ll have to pave the road as you’re
driving it, but don’t try to go it alone. Always be tweaking
your idea and listen to the advice of others, too.”
Iyer advised, “Starting a business seems like stepping
off a cliff. You have to have faith there will be something
underneath you.”
 MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 2

MESSENGER POST MEDIA

Celebrates the profession of nursing and honors those who

have so passionately dedicated their lives to patient care.
We join the American Nurses Association in celebrating National Nurses Week, which
begins each year on May 6th and ends on May 12th, Florence Nightingale’s birthday. The
purpose of the week-long celebration is to raise awareness of the value of nursing and
help educate the public about the role nurses play in meeting the health care needs of the
American people.
In honor of the dedication, commitment, and tireless effort of the nearly 3 million nurses
nationwide who promote and maintain the health of this nation we are proud to recognize
nurses everywhere during this particular week for the quality work they provide seven
days a week, 365 days a year.
The nursing profession has been supported and promoted by the American Nurses
Association (ANA) since 1896. Each of ANA’s state and territorial nurses associations
promotes the nursing profession at the state and regional levels. Each conducts
celebrations on these dates to recognize the contributions that nurses and nursing make
to the community.
The ANA supports and encourages National Nurses Week recognition programs through
the state and district nurses associations, other specialty nursing organizations, educational
facilities, and independent health care companies and institutions.

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73 buffalo street canandaigua ny 14424 | 585.394.0770 | www.MPNnow.com

To all of our nurses,

THANK YOU
for every next moment you have brought to our patients
and their families—for every time that you have tirelessly paid it forward.

You’re Invaluable.

Jake
Registered Nurse
Rochester General
Hospital

NATIONAL NURSES WEEK 2018

 MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 3
Karleen Hollander BSN
Rochester General Hospital
Rochester Regional Health
Karleen decided when
she was four years old
she was going to be a
nurse. Her mother had
no idea how serious she
was. During high school
she attended Wemoco-
Boces and earned her
CNA, and immediately gained employment at a
nursing home. Once completing high school she
continued her education commuting to Genesee-
Boces where she received her LPN. The Associate
RN came next at MCC. Her education continued at
St. John Fisher where she earned her BSN while
working full time, becoming a single mother and
buying a home. Karleen continues her nursing
career at Rochester General Hospital, and is also
an on-call nurse at Shorewinds Nursing Home.
She attends Roberts Wesleyan College as an
online student and will earn her Masters in
Nursing this December.
Kimberly Yerkes RN
Labor and Delivery Nurse
UR Medicine - Thompson Health
• Kimberly is an amazingly, compassionate OBGYN
nurse who helps women and their families during
their most vulnerable times. Through heartache
and joy, she is unbelievable and the best!
• Kim always goes above and beyond for each of
her patients she is caring for and always makes
sure they are comfortable, know what’s going on
and makes sure you have everything you need.
• Kim is a caring compassionate nurse who takes
great pride in her job.
• Kim is a very special nurse in many ways. She is
very confident and knowledgable in her career
as a nurse. Kim makes it so her patients are very
comfortable with her and with what they are
going through. Kim was my nurse when I had my
baby a little over a year ago, she and all the staff
on the maternity floor made it so amazing! Thank
you Kimmy for being you, you definitely deserve
this award!
Khristeen Sproul
RN,BSN
UR Medicine -
Thompson Health
Khristeen Sproul is a
nurse that is truly special
for who she is. She is a
Registered Nurse who works in the Emergency
Department at Thompson Health, and has
achieved her BSN and CEN, as well as, a current
AHA CPR and ACLS instructor and a NYS Critical
Care technician at Canandaigua Emergency
Squad. Khristeen has had four children, and just
recently went through a tremendous amount
of stress and sadness with a new baby that had
complications due to cleft lip and palate along
2018 SALUTE TO NURSES TRIBUTES
with a premature emergency delivery and
prolonged stay in the neonatal intensive care
unit. During the time of tears and happiness of her
new baby, with her other children by her side, she
never stopped worrying about how her coworkers
were doing in the ED. She spoke routinely on how
she wishes she can get back to helping others in
their time of need. And to her coworkers, counting
down the days to getting back to work along side
them, helping others. Khristeen has always put
her family, kids, patients and coworkers before
herself, even during the toughest times in her
personal life with her family and new baby. Her
passion to help others is 24/7. This is why I believe
she is special, because she always puts others
needs before her own and truly sets an example
of a nurse that cares about others before her own
needs — I think that makes her special.
Lois Centola,
Clinical Leader
Rochester
Regional Health -
Unity Hospital
Lois had wanted to be a
nurse for as long as I can
remember and has been one for 36 years. She has
the ability and composure to do the sometimes
unglamorous jobs that nurses have to do. I’ve
seen her use her nursing skills even when she is
off duty. She is proud of her profession and I am
proud that she is my sister!
Blythe Furber RN
UR Medicine - Golisano
Children’s Hospital - NICU
Blythe is an amazing nurse and amazing at
advocating for her patients and their parents.
Blythe goes out of her way to check in on the
babies she has cared for in the past. She makes it
a point to know the name of her babies and their
parents. She can be heard asking parents if there’s
anything she can get them or asking if they’ve
taken time to eat. Blythe definitely deserves
honorable mention and any baby would be lucky
to be in her gentle hands.
Gwen Williams RN,
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Rochester General Hospital
Rochester Regional Health
Gwen is responsible for departmental education,
training, competencies, class enrollment for
courses, assisting with clinical nurse advancement
and the new grad orientation program. She is
always available and ready to help. Gwen is also
an officer in the Emergency Nurses Association
and communicates new training and updates
with the team.
Hannah Gulvin BSN, RN
UR Medicine -
Strong Memorial Hospital
Hannah is an exceptional nurse. Caring, hard
working and always learning to be a better nurse.
She is exceptional. She is my daughter. I am very
proud of everything she has accomplished and
her extraordinary dedication. The following poem
is written for Hannah and all nurses:
Nurse
N is for notable, and willing to share
U is for understanding, she really care
R is for reliable, right from the start
S is for sincere, with a loving heart
E is for energetic, so much to behold
“Nurse” a special one is more precious than gold
Tennell “Tina”
Lawton Simmons
LPN
Friendly Home
Tennell is a dedicated and
compassionate nurse. Tina
thinks of the members
(residents) she cares for as part of her family,
establishing close relationships with them and
their families over the past 19 years she has
worked at the Friendly Home.
Tina is an organized nurse who thoroughly
completes her tasks. A new Nurse Manager
recalls thinking that she was truly blessed with
having Tina, with her experience and values, as
her co-worker. Tina always remains calm and
collected even in stressful situations, and treats
her co-workers and members with the deepest
respect. Tina takes time to actively listen and is
an effective communicator. When an on-coming
nurse receives a report from Tina, there are never
unanswered questions.
Tina is patient, wise and passionate about her
work. She takes the time to learn about members’
habits and the small things that are very
meaningful to them as individuals. Tina is truly
valued for these characteristics and the excellent
job she does as an Licensed Practical Nurse.
Karen Eipert RPN
Pittsford Central School District
Barker Road Middle School staff and students
would like to recognize our building’s School
Nurse, Karen Eipert, RPN. When you think about
a school nurse who provides a safe and caring
atmosphere for her students, as well as staff,
Karen Eipert comes immediately to mind.
Karen is a responsible and dedicated staff member
at Barker Road Middle School. As the school
nurse for the building, she is very passionate
about taking care of all the students and staff
in the building. She is compassionate, kind and
professional, and makes others feel comfortable
in her presence.
Karen gives 100% of herself each and every day
at Barker Road. She always puts the needs of the
students above her own on a daily basis. Over the
years, Karen has worked with students who have
some significant health and academic needs. Her
calming demeanor and strong knowledge basis
allows her to handle all the cases that arise. She
continues to work with all the students to be
an advocate for themselves and assists them in
becoming more independent with understanding
their individual health needs.
Karen does her job thoroughly and pays great
Webster Central School District
attention to detail. Her list of responsibilities is
numerous and she handles all of them without Our nurses are dedicated to excellence in school
nursing, and are integral in embracing and
hesitation and maintains professionalism with
everything that comes to her. Her organizational advancing the mission, vision and core vaues of
Webster Central School District. Appearing left
skills are extraordinary which results in her office
running smoothly. She takes it upon herself to to right: Susan Galligan, Michelle Smoyer-Mallo,
Michelle Guidice, Althea Mix-Bryan, Michelle
treat all the students with respect and gives her
immediate attention to each and every one who Brincka, Susan Immesoete, Cheryl Marinaccio. Not
comes through her door. She is able to shift gears present: Tracy Cole, Christine Derks, Kristen Estelle,
Jessica Haefner, Renee Prince, Tammy Serio-Miller
when needed and takes care of the daily needs of
our students needing her attention. Tara Yaravitz.
Karen also is a valuable member of our building’s Marissa Renae Smookler, Intern
Health and Safety Committee. Her input is very Kennesaw State College -
much appreciated and well respected by the Wellstar School
Committee’s members. What is best for our
Marissa is a very special nurse in more ways than
students and staff is always at the forefront of her
you can think. She is very compassionate, warm,
mission of serving others. We would like to thank
loving, friendly, dedicated, sincere women that
her for her hard work and dedication.
you will ever meet. My daughter will go the extra
— With much appreciation and gratitude, The mile to see that her patients and their needs are
Staff and students at Barker Road Middle School taken care of and met. Marissa also enjoys the life
path that she has chosen. I am very proud of you
Alyssa Caito RN my sweetheart. — Mom
UR Medicine -
Strong Memorial Hospital Kristen Dyer
Alyssa has the biggest heart in the smallest Bloomfield
body? She even made Employee of the Month Elementary
this month. Her father and I are so proud of her! School Nurse
Ann Rolph, Clinical Leader Kristen is also a first year
Finger Lakes Health - nurse. In that short time
Geneva General she has demonstrated that
she is a compassionate health professional with a
Annie is an amazing nurse, her sense of humor
and dedication to her patients and the hospital keen eye for community involvement. Kirsten, we
could never do it without you. Thanks!
where she has worked for 25 years is to be
commended. Annie always put patients first and
Michelle Yestrebi
balances a very challenging job of advocating
Bloomfield
for patients as well as nurses. She has never lost
MS/HS Nurse
sight of what is truly important in nursing and she
Michelle Yestrebi is a first
works hard to mentor and educate new nurses.
She never misses a day of work and arrives early year school nurse who has
made a big impact on the
and stays late, that dedication is hard to find
these days. Annie should be honored for her building and community.
From her after school fitness class to her
continued dedication and leadership in these very
challenging health care times. choreography of Oklahoma, Michelle has proven
that she is a powerful advocate for students and
Michele Fusco-Smith PN a dependable colleague. Thank you for everything
Dr. James Budd - UR Medicine you do!
Michele never rushes through an appointment
Alyssa Caito RN
and is very thorough in getting us ready to see
UR Medicine -
Dr. Budd. She was very patient with my wife who
Strong Memorial Hospital
had dementia and physical disabilities. She is
a real gem and asset to Dr. Budd in our opinion! Alyssa has the biggest heart in the smallest body?
When I was ill in California, she answered all my She even made Employee of the Month this
questions and gave me great advice on what to month. Her father and I are so proud of her!
tell the California doctor. — Joe Preston
 MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 4
Michelle Smoyer-Mallo
Webster Central School District
Our school nurse, Michelle
Smoyer-Mallo, is simply
AMAZING! When I think of
characteristics of an ideal
elementary school nurse I
think about someone that
is kind, compassionate,
caring and nurturing yet
not enabling. A school nurse is someone that
helps students yet fosters their independence
and resilience. Michelle is all of those things and
so much more!
Our students at Plank South Elementary School
are incredibly lucky to have such a wonderful
human being, taking care of them during their
time of need. From her diligence in keeping our
students with life threatening allergies safe, to
her daily interactions with students that are not
feeling well, Michelle is an integral part of our
pupil services team. Elementary school children
are prone to bumps, bruises and falls and
whenever they need some TLC or true medical
attention, Michelle is there is lend a hand (or
a band aid!). I have witnessed her navigate
through some pretty serious injuries and her cool,
calm and collected personality helps everyone
involved remain under control and relaxed
throughout the incident.
Michelle is such an important part of our school.
She is always there when we need her and we
are grateful for her care. Nurse Mallo is a blessing
THANK YOU
for every next moment you have brought to our patients
and their families—for every time that you have tirelessly paid it forward.
Whitney
Registered Nurse
Clifton Springs Hospital & Clinic
and I truly believe that our school community is a
better place with her in it!
Chris Bocchino
RN, MICU
Administrative
Clinical Leader
Rochester
General Hospital
Rochester
Regional Health
Chris is a young nurse who has truly blossomed
in his role as an Administrative Clinical Leader.
Not only has he gained the critical thinking skills
necessary to be a charge nurse in a Medical ICU
and a resource to the rest of the hospital, he has
learned how to become a major support person
for his team, understands the importance of
hard work for the betterment of his patients, and
has grown immensely as a leader. He manages
to keep his cool in extremely intense situations
and can make tough calls that are necessary to
keep the ship afloat on a daily basis. Being such a
young leader, I have confidence in the strength of
leadership in the MICU for many years.
Stacey Greenberg BSN, RN,
Educator, Clinical Educator
Hill Haven Nursing and
Rehabilitation -
Rochester Regional Health
A nurse for over 25 years, that has raised four
children, is a great athlete, great friend, great
spouse, great mom, great educator, a team
To all of our nurses,
You’re Invaluable.
NATIONAL NURSES WEEK 2018
player (and that in and of itself is a lost art these
days and a huge accomplishment), always puts
her job first and never abuses the absent system
ever for personal reasons, a trooper — always
looking to be the best she can be. Stacey is an
educator for Hill Haven and St. John Fisher, has
been an educator for RIT and Isabella Graham
Hart Nursing School, to name a few. Stacey does
the work of four people and never complains
about it. Stacey sees the laziness present in some
of the environments she has worked in, but is
motivated enough to stay extremely active. She
is not one to come in and simply get a paycheck.
In my opinion, if the nursing industry had all
Stacey Greenbergs, it would be a finely tuned
machine by now!
Jennifer Sainnoval RN
Finger Lakes Health -
Geneva General
• Jennifer Sainnoval is my daughter, but she is
much more than that. Jennifer is the loving,
caring individual that I have always tried to be,
but Jennifer has succeeded. Jennifer displays the
kindest demeanor of anyone I have ever met. Her
soft voice is calming to patients and co-workers
alike in stressful times. Patients at the hospital
frequently send cards to Jennifer after they
are discharged to thank her for the sweetness,
attentiveness, and sincerity she displayed while
taking care of them. Jennifer struggles financially
as a single mother but one would never know of
her struggles because Jennifer always displays a
flashing smile that lights up the room when she
walks in. Jennifer cares deeply for the individuals
she is responsible for in the PACU Department
at Geneva General and is always volunteering
to work for other nurses at the hospital. Jennifer
Sainnoval is the epitome of an outstanding
nurse, this is why I am proud to nominate
Jennifer Sainnoval.
• Jennifer was a Registered Nurse in Med/Surge
Telemetry for six years and within the last two
years she took a new position in the PAC U at
Geneva General. Jennifer has a heart of pure
gold and always puts her patients and others first
before herself. Jennifer is a single mother of three
and sometimes struggles financially to provide
for her children. However, she is not a person
that views life with the glass half empty. Rather,
Jennifer takes on extra hours and sacrifices her
own personal wishes to give to others. Jennifer
has a nurturing side that makes her patients feel
more comfortable in a stressful health situation
prior to surgery and after.
Jennifer took a new position in the PAC U
after several years of working on the 2 West
floor at Geneva General. She is highly sought
after at word for her opinion and help and
always complimented on her dedication and
performance. I truly feel if there were more
nurses like Jennifer then the nursing field would
be raised to an even higher level.
Lastly, it is an award like this that will truly
recognize and compliment Jennifer’s work
over the last eight years. Thank you for your
consideration of Jennifer Sainnoval. — Terry
Lucero
Jean Oswald RN
Shepherd Home
Jean has a special talent
for being with the dying
in her work as a hospice
nurse. She provides
comfort and compassion
to both patient and family members. Her
greatest pleasure is to be at the bedside offering
physical relief and words of consolation. Jean has
a unique ability to be present for others during
difficult times and is a wealth of information to
help identify resources. Family and friends of her
many patients have been very grateful for her
support.
Alexandra Reidmiller
School Nurse
Greece Athena High School
Alexandra supports 1,170 students in grades
9-12 each day plus another 150 staff at Greece
Athena High School. She is professional,
courteous, supportive and nurturing. There is no
task too big for her to complete. She is always
willing to lend a helping hand and always greets
students, parents and staff with a warm and
welcoming smile. She reviews all of our sports
recertifications and has been a class advisor. It is
a pleasure to work with her each day and I am
thankful that she is part of my staff here at Greece
Athena.
 MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 5
Cassie Snyder
Labor and Delivery Nurse
UR Medicine - Thompson Hospital
Cassie had true compassion for me as I was a high
risk patient delivering a baby during a C-section.
I was nervous and Cassie was right there with
complete confidence that everything would be
OK. Even after my baby was born, Cassie spent
time with both of us, that was unnecessary, but
very helpful. The compassion Cassie shows her
patients isn’t something that can be taught in a
classroom. It’s somwhing that comes from inside
and she shares it with the people she’s caring for.
After having four babies, Cassie will always be my
most favorite maternity nurse!
Amy Kohlmeier RN, Nurse Leader
Hill Haven Nursing Home -
Rochester Regional Health
I originally met
Amy through
participation in
the community
dog rescue,
however I really
got to see Amy
as the amazing
nurse she is by
volunteering at
Hill Haven Nursing
Home with my
dog Toby, who
visits weekly to
spend time with
residents and staff. Amy is a skilled and confident
nurse leader on her unit, highly revered by her
residents, and dedicated to her role. I am also a
nurse at Rochester General Hospital, and Amy is
so committed to her residents that she will ask
me to go check on them when they need to be
transferred to the hospital! Hill Haven is truly
lucky to have such a strong and dedicated nurse
like Amy! I am truly lucky to call her my friend!
Julie Gottfried
DNP RN CNS
CPNP-PC, Magnet
Director
Rochester
Regional Health
Dr. Julie Gottfried is a
passionate, knowledgeable
and experienced nurse who truly cares for the
well-being of children and their families. She
exudes brilliance and ingenuity when organizing
projects by keeping them on task to achieve the
goals outlined for the project. Her work with
sepsis in the pediatric population is inspiring
as she has led to innovative changes within our
health care system. Her accolades have led to a
larger forum on sepsis expanding her drive for
superb sepsis care to a national level.
Her work at Rochester Regional Health in the
pediatric population has been paramount in
bringing this emerging health care system to a
collaborative and cohesive team. As the pediatric
educator she was an instrumental as a resource
in efforts to reshape the department of clinical
education. Dr. Gottfried created The Pediatric
Nurse Council and created the development
of Lifespan Fellowship Program, attracting
new graduates for caring across Lifespan. The
Pediatric Nursing Council (PNC) is comprised of
key stakeholders who provide nursing care for
children throughout Rochester Regional Health
(RRH). PNC serves to standardize the care we
provide for children by utilizing best evidence-
based practice to optimize patient outcomes and
strive to create an environment of continuous
quality improvement (CQI).
Dr. Gottfried is deserving of this leadership award
for her drive and passion in leading Rochester
General Hospital through the magnet journey
as we approach our 2018 re-designation. Dr.
Gottfried exhibits Miss Palmer’s leadership
qualities of determination, intelligence and
foresight daily in her passionate approach of
guiding RGH in writing about our wonderful
work through magnet. Dr. Gottfried is an
optimistic ball of fire that inspires and captivates
those around her to strive for excellence. We hope
to do Dr. Gottfried justice with this nomination in
showcasing her for the amazing impact she is
making in professional nursing practice at RGH.
Dr. Gottfried has re-energized RGH in pursuit of
Magnet. Her ability in such a short time frame to
drive a story from identification to completion
is inspiring. The enthusiastic drive in which she
facilitates the meetings awakens the passion
and pride we have for the nursing profession.
Throughout the organization we have seen Dr.
Gottfried’s influence from G1 to MICU to OB to
showcase the excellent professional nursing
practice at Rochester General Hospital.
Carolyn Jane
Walsh RN
UR Medicine -
Wilmot Cancer
Institute
Carolyn Jane Walsh
deserves special
recognition for the characteristics and behaviors
that personify the ideal nurse. Those of us
fortunate to be in her care know that Jane goes
far above and beyond expectations. Every patient
gets special treatment and receives superior
service and time. Jane’s dedication to the
excellence of her profession make her a genuine
asset to the field of medicine as she exemplifies
all that is good.
Donna Barrows, NICU
Lactation Consultant
UR Medicine -
Strong Memorial Hospital
NICU - (The Bay)
As a first time parent, going to the NICU is
extremely scary. You feel helpless, anxious,
scared and have no idea how to make your child
better. Donna was there when my hour old son
was admitted. She supported me in our 11-day
stay, ensuring that I understood the process
of breastfeeding. She knew how important it
was for me as a mom to breastfeed and she
immediately began giving me hints and tips. She
showed me how to get my milk to come in sooner
and how to build up my supply. My son couldn’t
breast feed initially, so I was pumping and saving
everything I could. She gave me something to
focus on, something to put my energy into, and
when my milk started coming in, I felt successful
for the first time. When I would get scared or
frustrated, she would come back with research
or articles that put my mind at ease. I eventually
began to breastfeed and she was so positive and
supportive. My husband and I took her mantras
and reminders home with us when we were
discharged.
Now I can look at this experience with a child in
NICU, and see the positives of this experience, The
main one being Donna. If that wasn’t enough, she
continued to support me at home by answering
my frantic emails and questions. When my son
went on a nursing strike several months later,
she was still there offering helpful hints and
reminding me that “I’m doing everything right.”
Anyone that has an opportunity to work with her
is very lucky. I know she made a big difference in
the lives of son, my husband and myself. She is
very deserving of this honor and please consider
her nomination seriously.
James Koch RN
Greece Odyssey
Academy
Mr. James Koch is a
caring, hard working and
dedicated member of the
Odyssey Academy school
community! He is always
available to work with students, administer
medicine and plan appropriately for field trips.
Thank you Mr. Koch!
Marguerite Guerra, Dialysis
Nurse Educatator
Rochester Regional Health -
Unity Hospital
Marguerite Guerra received her RN from SUNY
Brockport and has faithfully served in the
Rochester area for over 30 years. She is currently
the Dialysis Nurse Educator for Unity Dialysis.
In the various positons that Marguerite has held,
she always has patient care and comfort as her
main objective. Transitioning from direct patient
care to a Nurse Educator she can take her years of
experience and share it with people that are new
to the profession.
Marguerite also takes time to visit the nurses in
the units. This allows her to obtain feedback on
the training that the nurses have received, along
with giving her the chance to supplement the
classroom training.
Through her dedication to the profession,
Marguerite is always looking for ways to improve
the current processes and the care that the
patients receive.
Sarah Boyce RN
Emergency Room
UR Medicine - Thompson Hospital
Sarah goes above and beyond the call of duty.
Her bright smile and humor definitely make
an emergency room visit more pleasant. She
is always smiling and goes above her duties
to make you feel like you are her number one
priority despite having a full house of patients.
Bonnie Jensen
Director of
Nursing
Baird Nursing
Home
Bonnie Jensen has been
the Director of Nursing
at the Baird Nursing
home for 17 years. Her long tenure is unique
in an industry with a high turn-over culture.
Bonnie’s dedication has provided continuity of
care for our residents and has enhanced staff
training and development. Within the small
family-like Baird Nursing home, Bonnie has worn
many hats over the years. She is responsible for
maintaining extensive healthcare knowledge,
meeting residents medical needs, managing and
developing Nursing staff, addressing regulations,
compiling reports, budget management
and patient documentation. Bonnie thrives
in completing these challenges, while
simultaneously developing close relationships
with our residents and their families.
Kathy Baxter
RN BSN
Newark-Wayne
Community
Hospital -
Rochester
Regional Health
I am not a patient of
Kathy’s, but a dear friend.
Kathy had to go back into
the work force in her late
50’s due to a personal
issue. That is a tough
thing to do ... you are on your feet for 12 hour
shifts, up all night, lifting people, dealing with
difficult patients, learning new techniques, new
procedures ...You don’t move like you did in your
20’s and 30’s. But you know what? Kathy loves
it! She loves the other nurses and loves helping
people — making a difference — even with
the grumpie ones. :0) You see, we are horseback
riding buddies — trail rides are like therapy. We
would go out on trails and talk about her week,
not specifics like names etc ... but what she did,
how she helped people — she would be super
happy that she was making a difference and was
needed. If I were a patient I would certainly want
her as my nurse ... she would take good care of
me and not let me get away with whining or
saying I couldn’t do something. Anyway ... Kathy
is your girl!
Carrie Ann Amelia Blackwood RN,
Wound Care Specialist
Lifetime Homecare
Carrie has been my nurse since 2014. She has
stood by my care as if she were my sister, my
aunt, my friend and also a member of the
wonderful Lifetime Homecare Team. She has
seen my wounds after a variety of surgeries,
seen my perservance, seen my sadness and seen
my hope for getting better. Any time of the day
or night she has given me services or directed
me to whom could if she was on unavailable,
which doesn’t occur very often because she is
hardworking and dedicated to her patients. Her
skills of wound care and communication with the
wound care staff at RGH St. Anns, my infectious
disease doctor at Unity and my other doctors in
and out of state, go beyond the call of duty. To
assist myself and my fiance’s skills she delivers to
us excellent carry over that we would not be able
to provide to the wounds I have had and do have
currently. Wound care is a very acute field. A field
that constantly changes as wounds heal inside
out and that often have complications arrive. I
certainly have had challenges with infections
and side affects that Carrie has not shied away
from. I truly would not be able to have mentally,
emtionally or physically been able to continue to
heal without Carrie. Trusting her judgement has
sometimes been the only judgement I have been
able to grip on too. Home care is a better addition
to follow up hospital care because of Carrie. I
nominate Carrie for this Salute to Nurses award
for so many reasons, but truly for holding onto
faith with me that things will be better. Thank
you Carrie.
Nicole DePuyt RN, MSNE,
Nurse Manager
Newark Manor Nursing Home
My wife is an amazing person. In her short life
of 28 years, she has obtained a BSN, which
she received while battling epilepsy, multiple
hospitalizations and much doubt. She was
diagnosed at the age of 18, but she never let it
stop her. She was threatened by her college that
they would have to ask her to leave because of
the constant interruption. But, she refused. She
made it. Then, she proceeded to obtain her MSN
in education. She wanted to be a teacher, she is a
teacher. She creates new generations of nurses.
She makes a difference. When she was pregnant
last year, while battling gestational diabetes,
she still worked up to 70 hours a week for her
residents, even though she is only paid for 40.
She always puts everyone else before herself. She
has the biggest heart I know and makes the most
amazing nurse. If that’s not special, her story, her
journey, her success and her true passion, then I
don’t know what is.
Susan McCarthy RN
UR Medicine - Thompson Hospital
Susan is the definition of what a nurse should be!
She’s caring, compassionate, humorous, loving,
attentive, educational, grateful and an all around
outstanding person! She always goes above and
beyond for her patients and their families. Susan
has been a long time OB nurse and has assisted in
 MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 6
the delivery of many babies. Even when faced with
the tragedy of losing her house and belongings in
a devastating house fire, Susan continued to be
the rock that held it all together. Susan is a great
teacher! She cares for her nursing students like no
other and has always done everything she could
to see them to the end! Susan is the nurse that I
strive to be everyday, in my own nursing journey!
I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren’t for her!
Karen Muller
Care Manager
Rochester
Regional Health
Karen Muller is a wonderful
nurse who always goes
above and beyond. She has
demonstrated compassion,
knowledge, and dedication
and is truly a credit to her profession. She treats all
individuals with kindness and has a gentle heart.
She has a kind, soft-spoken demeanor, and we are
truly grateful for her commitment, dedication, and
patience that she demonstrates on a daily basis.
Karen is an angel on earth.
Linda Zappia RN, Clinical Manager
Finger Lakes Health -
Geneva General Operating Room
Linda is beyond committed to not only us, the staff
at the OR at GGH, but all the patients that come
through our department. Linda works countless
hours, leaving late and working on days off to
insure our department runs smoothly. In our role
Tracie
Registered Nurse
Newark-Wayne
DeMay Living Center
in the OR, we are often the forgotten staff, as our These caring professionals include: Stephanie
patients are under sedation/anesthesia while we Galton RN, Nurse Manager; Elizabeth Willard RN,
are providing care. Linda goes out of her way to Assistant Nurse Manager; Suzanne Perry LPN; Claire
provide the best care possible. She is the glue that Lockwood LPN; Mike Dressing LPN; Tammy Tapscott
holds our department together. We are so very LPN; Jenny Eckam LPN; Yvonne Mitchell LPN
fortunate to have her. — Sincerely, Susan, Sandi, Cathy and Bill Adams
Jennifer Yancey Danielle Choates RN
Clinical Quality Coordinator UR Medicine - Thompson Health
Christina Smith Claudette Crowley Eileen Kay Jennifer Wagner
UR Medicine - Thompson Health Danielle was absolutely amazing during my
Jen is an extraordinary nurse. I have known Jen all mammograms and my biopsy. I was diagnosed
my life and she is an amazing caregiver. She is very with breast cancer, and during the appointments,
knowledgeable and compassionate and continues she was so comforting as were ALL the ladies at
to expand her education on a daily basis. She is the Breast Imaging Office. She has even checked up
great with her patients and shows compassion and on me during and after chemo. Just an all around
love with everything she does and with everyone great nurse.
she comes into contact with. She strives every day Julie Pancio Kathy Harris Kathy Richards Katie Parasch
Rose Dudkiewicz LPN
to make herself a better nurse and to help others
Rochester Regional Health
be better nurses as well. Jen is loved by all who
Dr. John Seaford, Webster Office
she comes into contact with, from her youngest
patients to the oldest ones, as well as by her co Always pleasant and always with a smile. Makes
workers and bosses. Jen comes from a long line of one feel at ease.
nurses in her family and nursing is in her blood. Jen
puts her heart and soul into her work. If anyone is Jenny Pratt RN
deserving of this honor, it is Jennifer Yancey! UR Medicine -
Thompson Kelly Cooper Kim Teng Margaret Hack Susan Cymbal
Nurses at The Gardens Hospital
M.M. Ewing Penfield Central School District
Continuing Care Center Very caring and ready to
The Penfield Central School District would like to thank all of our school
help. We are very proud
Our sincere thanks to the wonderful nurses in The nurses for everything they do to keep our students healthy and safe every
of you. —Grandma and
Gardens at M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center. We Grandpa day! Thank you to Margaret Hack and Kim Teng (Penfield High School);
truly appreciate the important care these nurses Susan Cymbal and Katie Parasch (Bay Trail Middle School); Kelly Cooper
and their entire staff bestow on their residents. (Cobbles); Kathy Richards (Harris Hill); Christina Smith (Indian Landing);
Kathy Harris (Scribner); Carol O’Neil and Jennifer Wagner (District); Julie
Pancio (Finney); Eileen Kay (Mercy); and Claudette Crowley (St. Joseph’s). Carol O’Neil
To all of our nurses,
THANK YOU
for every next moment you have brought to our patients
and their families—for every time that you have tirelessly paid it forward.
You’re Invaluable.
NATIONAL NURSES WEEK 2018
MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 7
 MESSENGER POST MEDIA CELEBRATES NATIONAL NURSES WEEK • MAY 6th through 12th, 2018 • PAGE 8
46 YEARS CELEBRATING
NATIONAL SCHOOL NURSE DAY
2018 Theme: School Nurses: Advocates for 21st Century Student Health
National School Nurse Day, May 9, 2018, is a time to
celebrate the specialty practice of school nursing. In
1972, the National Association of School Nurses (NASN)
created National School Nurse Day to recognize school nurses
and acknowledge their role in the educational setting. NASN
applauds the contributions school nurses make every day to
improve the safety, health, and academic success of all students.
The theme this year — School Nurses: Advocates for 21st Century
Student Health — reinforces the Framework for 21st Century
School Nursing Practice which helps direct school nurses to
be in the forefront of promoting a culture of health in their
communities. It is reflective of the significant roles school nurses
have in the health care of their school communities to help make
a healthier place for children and families to learn and grow.
“The school nurse voice is more powerful than most of us realize.
It is when we help a teacher understand how to alter lesson plans
so students with food anaphylaxis can participate in all learning
activities. It is when we teach children healthy habits so they can
grow and thrive,” said NASN President Nina Fekaris, MS, BSN, RN,
NCSN. Adding, “A professional school nurse is needed in every
school to care for every child because school nursing is the
foundation for student health.”
NASN believes all teachers deserve to have school nurses in their
buildings so that teachers can focus on instruction and students’
To all of our nurses,
THANK YOU
for every next moment you have brought to our patients
and their families—for every time that you have tirelessly paid it forward.
You’re Invaluable.
NATIONAL NURSES WEEK 2018
individual educational needs; and parents deserve to feel secure
that children are safe at school and their health needs are met
every day by specialized school nurses. School nurses have
the skills to plan and implement care for students with chronic
and medically complex conditions and prepare school staff to
recognize and respond appropriately to potential emergencies.
Prevention is key in school wellness and safety, but planned
emergency response and disaster preparedness is an essential
part of the important role school nurses play.
“It is a tremendous privilege to honor our nation’s school nurses
as we celebrate National School Nurse Day,” said NASN Executive
Director Donna Mazyck, MS, RN, NCSN. “School nurses influence
wellness and disease prevention practices as change agents in
schools and communities.”
NASN has created this School Nurse Day Toolkit to help you
celebrate National School Nurse Day.
The National Association of School Nurses is a non-profit specialty
nursing organization, first organized in 1968 and incorporated in
1977, representing school nurses exclusively. NASN has more than
16,000 members and 50 affiliates, including the District of Columbia
and overseas school nurses. The mission of NASN is to optimize
student health and learning by advancing the practice of school
nursing. Please visit us on at www.nasn.org.
Aisha
Registered Nurse
St. Mary’s Campus