Staff Writer
Calvin Adkins
TARBORO —
Two Vidant Edgecombe Hospital nurses were recognized by the hospital Thursday when they were presented awards for nurse of the year.
Cindy Anderson was named Vidant Edgecombe Nurse of the Year and Deborah Gary was named Clinical Assistant of the Year.
"I'm really proud of Deborah and Cindy for their awards," said Wick Baker, president of Vidant Edgecombe. "They are living examples of the type of staff that take care of patient at Vidant Edgecombe Hospital. I'm just tickled to death that they were recognized for the great work that they provide everyday."
The awards were presented as the hospital begins its observance of National Nurses Week, which runs May 6-12.
Gary began her career in 1974 at the old Edgecombe General Hospital that sits vacant across the street from Vidant. In 2005, she earned the Employee of the Quarter. Comments were read from her co-worker describing Gary as "a great asset for the medical unit." Another one said she is, "The epitome of everything a nursing assistant should be and another one said, "She is the one I would want to care for me or my family."
When Gary's name was called as the Clinical Assistant of the Year, she couldn't hold back the tears.
"I was so shocked, happy and thankful," she said.
Anderson was also shocked. The 25-year RN began her career at Vidant in 1984 as a dietitian.
"She is highly respected and has earned the trust of our physicians with her clinical expertise," said Susan Suiter, Vidant Senior Director of Patient Care Services. "She is one of the first nurses willing to precept new employees and nursing students."
Comments from her co-workers said, Anderson is, "Willing to help at any time and a great teacher and coworker."
"I couldn't believe that the people around me think that much of me and think that I'm that good of an nurse," Anderson said. "I try hard."
