Marina D., is the recipient of the 2023-2024 Award for Person-Centred Care– one of the highest honours within Circle of Care’s employee recognition program, Champions of Care.
Evolving in Elderly Care
Marina’s compassionate approach and dedication to holistic care were clear from the beginnings of her healthcare career as a visiting nurse specializing in elder care. Through this experience, she developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by seniors and their families when dealing with health issues.
Driven by a desire to challenge herself and make a broader impact on the community, Marina transitioned into a supervisory role as a Client Service Supervisor at Circle of Care. This decision allowed her to work directly with healthcare professionals while maintaining her commitment to person-centred care.
Impacting Lives through Compassionate Care
Marina’s unwavering commitment to client care goes above and beyond expectations, reflecting the values of empathy and dedication. Not only does she respect each individual as a whole person with unique needs, her attention to detail and ability to connect with clients have a profound impact on her clients’ quality of life.
Her colleague Tara described one of many times when Marina was able to coordinate internal resources and external agencies to support a client who had no family to rely on. “Even though it was a complex situation, you respectfully honoured this client’s wishes to remain in his own home,” explained Tara. “I sincerely admire your dedication and your willingness to go above and beyond to ensure our client receives truly holistic care. I’m very proud to work with you and to learn from you.”
Her clients have also expressed their gratitude directly. For example, one client writes a poem for Marina every holiday. “I was so touched,” says Marina. “It’s an amazing reward, to be appreciated to that point. I had tears in my eyes.”
Celebrated for her Person-Centred Care
Marina’s outstanding role in forging meaningful relationships and going the extra mile for each and every person has touched the hearts of her colleagues. It is this dedication to person-centered care that led her to receive the 2024 Circle of Care Award for Person-Centred Care. This award celebrates individuals who provide exceptional, safe, and compassionate care, both in the home and in the community. They exemplify person-centred care by approaching each individual as a whole person with unique needs.
“I was touched. I have no words to express my happiness,” says Marina. “Best event and happiest day in my life. It is not an easy job, but I love what I am doing. I wouldn’t work anywhere else.”
Marina also thanked her management team for their exceptional support, guidance, and encouragement over the last 15 years. She credits this collaborative environment with encouraging her to continually grow and enabling her to consistently deliver compassionate care. “I have never seen such great managers,” says Marina. “They are there to support you, and you can always count on them. It is the most amazing management team I have ever worked with in my life!”
From her beginnings as a visiting nurse to her role as a supervisor, Marina continues to inspire us through her commitment to improving the quality of life for those around her.
