This week we had two raccoons drop through the ceiling at our physical therapy sports clinic in southeast Roanoke.  Fortunately, this occurred in a bathroom that was out of service.  After unsuccessful attempts to get a wildlife specialist to our clinic, we called our incredible Carilion Police.  Sgt. Crotts and Officer Witt responded and didn't hesitate to assist Shauna Farrington, PTA, in removing one of the raccoons.

On Tuesday, November 5th while US citizens across our great land were participating in our constitutional right to vote, Abubakar “Abu” Fofana was taking the Oath of Allegiance to officially become a United States Citizen!

If you spend any time at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital, you will recognize Abu, a Clinical Transporter. He is the guy with a ear-to-ear smile, cheerfully escorting our discharged patients to their cars and family.

The NICU took a space in the unit that was used infrequently and converted it into a "multipurpose room" complete with a recliner and a mini fridge that is dedicated to housing breast milk for staff who need to pump during their shift. This space allows someone who needs a quiet moment during their day to have a place to relax, as well as gives our pumping nurses an allocated space which allows comfort and privacy while they pump. Thank you to our unit directors: Ghis Cady, Angela Alderman and Cindy Johnson, for thinking of the needs of our staff!

Olivia Murry ran a mini-ICU in the ED yesterday.  She had a challenging intubated patient that required frequent medication titration for the duration of her shift.  She found time intermittently to care for her other patients, which at times was no small task either.  When she felt behind, she wasn't afraid to ask for help and was always open to learning something new.  She barely sat down throughout the day and worked hard to keep her patients comfortable and cared for.  She stayed past her shift end time to make sure that her patient care was complete and that th

Thank you, Wendi Jobe Peds GI Manager, for stepping up to help cover our clinic when others were on vacation this week.  You are the best manager ever!  Such a wonderful example of teamwork.

I want to give a big thank you to the Parking Team, Bill Dodson, Steve Jenks, and Ryan Brandt, at the Cancer Center for their hard work, dedication, and commitment to our patients. In the recent survey, the team received a 100% patient satisfaction score.

At the end of January, Steve Jenks will be retiring, and we want to thank him for his many years of serving to Carilion Clinic.

The next time you see a member of the Parking team, be sure to thank them for all they do.

While monitoring over 750 closed circuit cameras, 200 plus fire, burglary & medical equipment alarms we are on duty 24/7/365 providing a safe environment within all the Carilion facilities. This month alone we have answered 3100 calls for emergent assistance & over 1000 for non-emergent events.

Congratulations to 9S PCU for being CAUTI-free for over a year! This milestone reflects your commitment to patient health, safety, and exceptional care. Thank you.

Congratulations to 6W CCDU for being HAI-free for over a year! This milestone reflects your unwavering dedication to patient safety, infection prevention, and exceptional care. Thank you.

Shelby Wynn is a dedicated art therapist who is truly committed to providing patients with a positive therapeutic experience. While always giving her all, she was exceptional this week, showing calm, confidence and care during a moment of crisis in one of our groups. Shelby simultaneously handled the situation while ensuring the safety of everyone else present. Overall, she managed the situation with grace and was able to continue to lead the group without skipping a beat. Thank you for being an amazing art therapist, Shelby!