VCH staff and physicians from across the North Shore packed the Lions Gate Hospital gymnasium to see their colleagues honoured at today’s 10th Annual LGH Foundation North Shore Health Care Awards for Outstanding Achievement. They didn’t go away disappointed as each of the 42 people nominated were saluted for their efforts.

Dr. Allan Burgmann turned in another fine performance as emcee of the event, cleverly managing to incorporate the American Electoral College into his presentation.

The recipients of this year’s awards are:

Dr. Les Janz Leadership Award for Outstanding Achievement

Nelson Tung – RN, 6 West, LGH

Nelson truly leads by example and has achieved a great deal in his young career here at LGH. He worked for four years as an RN on the orthopedic ward not only caring for 4-5 patients but continuing to be invaluable to the rest of his colleagues, always offering a hand when needed. He then moved to the Joint Replacement Access Clinic and Pre Admission Clinic as the Patient Care Coordinator and is now the PCC of 6 West, orthopedic surgery. His wealth of experience is evident when he communicates with patients, families and the health care disciplinary team always staying calm and problem solving with great decision making capabilities. Nelson is able to keep the morale of the team high even in challenging situations and is always ready to jump in and help on the front line. Thanks to his proficient efforts, 6 West consistently meets the goals of the hospital generated cap-plan, helping to alleviate congestion in Emergency and allowing timely transfers of surgical patients from Post-Anesthetic Recovery.

Workplace Inspiration Award  for Outstanding Achievement

Corinne Beck – Unit Clerk, 5 East, LGH

Corinne is an exceptional team member who goes above and beyond to single-handedly elevate morale and improve the cohesive functioning of the 5 East team. Beyond being efficient and effective at keeping all aspects of the Unit’s systems and processes exceptionally organized, tidy, well-identified and smoothly flowing, she also smiles…and creates opportunities for positive social connection and rejuvenation recognizing the team’s humanity. For example, she’s created a weekly shared coffee break allowing the team to connect in a meaningful way and have a quick laugh (or sometimes cry) in the midst of challenging work.  As a result, the team operates more cohesively, the unit runs more smoothly, and more excellent care of patients and families occurs. The ‘Corinne Effect’ is felt throughout all aspects of the inpatient rehab unit!

Clinical Practice Award for Outstanding Achievement

Dr. David Critchley – Pediatrician, LGH

For over 20 years David has been instrumental in improving clinical practice in pediatrics and neonatal areas by developing and leading monthly simulations for the nurses, physicians, respiratory therapists and students. He also shares his time as a Neonatal Resuscitation instructor. About 6 years ago he recognized the need for prevention and education in the pediatric asthmatic patients within our community. His goal was to improve quality of care within this chronically ill group. As a result, the Pediatric Asthma Clinic was formed and it’s now a once a week clinic that helps 40-50 patients a month. The improved clinical practice has decreased length of stay for those that require hospitalization and with current updates readily shared with staff, David has influenced the clinical practice on the floor and in Emergency and improved the general care of pediatrics asthmatic patients.

Spirit of Philanthropy Award

Leanne Appleton – Former Director; Perioperative Services & Project Lead LGH Site Redesign, Acute Services

This year’s recipient has dedicated countless hours to the Foundation.  Within the first week of working at LGH, Leanne signed up to our employee giving program, donating to the Foundation from every pay cheque. She’s attended numerous Foundation galas and golf tournaments as a volunteer. She’s attended numerous Foundation Board meetings, committee meetings and other meetings with volunteers to advocate for our various campaigns. She’s been an enthusiastic ambassador in encouraging employee engagement with LGHF with various internal events. And, she’s played a lead role in the Grand Farewell Commemoration Event this past September.