CAMDEN — Quarry Hill celebrated nine of its care team members during an outdoor celebration held April 29 at the older-adult community’s Camden campus. The awards were given as part of the local healthcare system’s quarterly staff-recognition program.

Six staffers were singled out for “Standing Ovation” awards or nominations, which recognize workers who exemplify CHA’s mission and values.

Certified nursing assistant (CNA) Iris Perkins-Powell, who works in Quarry Hill’s dementia-care center, was recognized for her unusual ability to pick up on nonverbal signs that residents are in distress and taking appropriate action to address the issues.

Fellow dementia-care CNA Rebecca Twaddel was nominated for her caring and compassion as well as her willingness to go the extra mile to help coworkers, while assisted living CNA Grace Wagithuku was nominated by a resident for her intelligence, knowledge and intuition and for “interacting with each of us as people.”

Also nominated for Standing Ovation awards were: 21-year maintenance veteran Dean Curtis, described as a tireless workhorse and consummate professional who consistently “takes a resident-centered approach” to his
work; dietary aide Acadia Calderwood, who, after serving residents their meals, always asks “How was the food today? May I get you something special next time?”; and activities director Noreen Clark, who, upon learning that the holiday gifts ordered in 2019 for assisted living residents might not arrive in time, went out and purchased new gifts so each person would have something to open on Christmas Day.

Two team members received nominations for “Sunshine Awards,” celebrating CNAs and other healthcare support staff who deliver exceptional care. Standing Ovation nominee Rebecca Twaddel drew praise for turning bath time into a spa time for a resident who hates washing up; Genny Flanders was noted for “radiating care and joy, whether she’s serving supper or helping a resident walk down the hall.”

Rounding out the list of Quarry Hill standouts was nursing care CNA Heather Long, named a “Smart Ducky” for using her computer skills to help the department save money.

Quarry Hill

Quarry Hill is Midcoast Maine’s premier extended-care retirement community for adults age 55-plus. It is a member of the Pen Bay Medical Center family of services, which also includes Pen Bay Medical Center, Pen Bay Physician Practices and the Knox Center. To learn more about Quarry Hill, please call 301-6116, or visit www.quarryhill.org or www.facebook.com/QuarryHillCamdenMaine.