“Never did we think that we would not have our mom,Irene in our homes in her aging years, but two bouts with sepsis damaged her brain beyond what we can do on our own.  So, here we are today thankful to HONI for the work they do.  I asked if there was a way to honor an employee and was given this.  I may never meet the top doctor or the NP of mom’s care. It is Brenda who touches our lives by giving the hospice patients their showers. There were times no one could shower mom for a month. She was probably among one of the most difficult patients in the beginning having moved from her home, her country, and most of all losing her beloved doggie.  Once Brenda came, showers changed.  She puts her heart into her work, and she has a heart for her work.  Great things are done by a series of small things brought together. A puzzle is not finished until every little piece is properly in place. I know our loved one is slowly leaving us  – that is not a reason to just “get the job done”.  Many of us are making a puzzle with our memories and little moments to cherish forever.   When Brenda came, she fearlessly connected with Mom, spends a few moments  with her – not rushing her – mom accepts her into her most private space.  When showering, Brenda uses  the most delicious smelly shampoo that she often purchases.  Some may feel a shower is optional and easily write “refused” but Brenda told me she likes her patients to smell good for their family “that kisses them”.  This put tears in my eyes.  Mom has 9 children, 53 grandchildren, and countless great grands – many who visit often and kiss her.  I realized this – yes this, is what builds great entities. As St Theresa said, “Not everyone can do great things, but everyone can do little things with great love!”. I nominate Brenda’s heart for the hummingbird award.  She deserves so much more, but it is a start to say thank you.”

“Brenda makes a huge impact with our hospice residents everytime she comes in. She’s made such an amazing relationship with them, they light up the moment they see her car drive up or when they see her walking inside the facility. She always has such an upbeat light to her, and always going above and beyond making everyone feel loved and valued.”

“Brenda absolutely goes above and beyond for her clients. She always comes with a big smile that warms the room. She is extremely skilled in what she does and always makes sure our staff gets a good laugh. Her clients adore her and look forward to her visits. She socializes with not only her clients, but with other residents that are not on hospice. She gets residents coffee, snacks, and does their nails. She will always go the extra mile for anyone. She has such a comforting personality, she was meant to do this job. We all love and adore her over here at the Renaissance in Coeur d’ Alene. Thank you Brenda for all you do for us and your clients. There is nobody more deserving of this award!”