Visiting Nurse Association Recognizes Leaders in Barstow Home Health and Hospice
Annual Meeting Recognizes Community and VNA Leaders

 
Riverside, CA – The Visiting Nurse Association of the Inland Counties held its Annual Meeting at Riverside Convention Center on March 5th to recognize community and VNA leaders in Home Care and Hospice. Over 200 people attended the event and luncheon. Hosted by VNA’s CEO, Mike Rusnak, the event congratulated, rewarded, and recognized the efforts of those who have helped VNA earn a reputation for quality and compassionate care. The Barstow Home Health and Hospice offices were recognized for their contributions to the VNA and the community.

 
A leader from each VNA office was commended for his and her “Yes, I Can” spirit. Grace Edson, RN Case Manager who is celebrating 20 years of services with Barstow Hospice, was selected by her colleagues. “Grace makes multi-tasking look easy,” commented Barstow Hospice Director Brenda Hibbetts. “She manages a full case load, takes great care of her patients, and goes the extra mile with competency and grace. She deserves this recognition.”
Barstow Home Health RN Victoria Harper was recognized for celebrating five years of service and Account Manager Aimee Hernandez celebrated 10 years.

 
The highlight of the event was the 26th annual presentation of the Loving Care Awards. Janet Gibson was recognized by the Barstow Hospice team for her devotion and compassion as she patiently cared for and preserved the quality of life for her husband, Robert. Awarded to caregivers in each VNA location for the extraordinary loving care provided to a family member, friend, or their community, Janet’s story was highlighted in a short video. Interviews with Janet, family members, nurses and staff, and friends and neighbors, helped explain how her husband’s difficult situation was turned into heartwarming memories. The meeting concluded with Mr. Rusnak addressing the increasing need for Home Care, Palliative, and Hospice services. He energized the group by talking about how VNA is well-positioned to expand and enhance its market presence in 2012.

About Visiting Nurse Association of the Inland Counties (VNA)
One of the oldest Home Health and Hospice care providers in Southern California, VNA supports 10,000+ patients with 300,000+ visits each year. The only non-profit to offer a complete continuum of home care, VNA provides Home Health, Palliative, and Hospice services throughout Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. In addition, VNA’s Community Outreach efforts include Mourning Star Centers for Child and Teen Grief and Bereavement, Nightingale Society Charity Care Services, adult bereavement, professional continuing education and other seminars and workshops. For more information on services provided by the Barstow office contact Home Health and Hospice — 760-256-2016 or www.VNA-IC.org.