Portage Health Gives Award to Long-Time RN

HANCOCK ¬– Portage Health believes Registered Nurse Ann Brotherton has been a shining star in her department for 25 years. This week, she was recognized with the Gertrude Decker Hellman Excellence in Nursing Award.

“This is an absolute honor,” Brotherton said. “Especially because it’s something the patients suggested, it means a lot to me.”

The award was founded in 2005 in honor of Gertrude Decker Hellman. It’s presented each year to a nurse who demonstrates excellence in the provision of patient care. Patients and their family members nominate candidates for the award.

“She’s been described as ‘exceptional,’ ‘gives excellent care’ and ‘deserving of a gold star’ by a number of her patients,” said Paula Polso, inpatient unit manager. “She’s often seen in a chair beside a bed listening and offering whatever comfort she can to patients.”

After being surprised by the award, Brotherton thanked her coworkers and all the patients she’s cared for.

“I’ve met so many wonderful people in my time here,” Brotherton said.

Previous award winners include Debra Maki, RN (2010), Carol Vater, RN (2009), Elizabethe Gilreath, RN (2008), Anne Lett, RN (2007), Pat Corrigan, RN (2006) and Sally Smith, RN (2005).

Also at Wednesday’s service award ceremony 62 members of Portage Health’s staff were recognized for their years of service. Those recognized were celebrating their 10th, 15th, 20th, 25th, 30th, 35th or 45th anniversary with Portage Health. They have a combined 940 years of experience. The longest-serving member of the group is Allen Jarvi, a radiologic technologist, who has been with Portage Health for 45 years.