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“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Lydiah Napier!"

The Nursing Professional Governance Organization honors up to two UVA Health University Medical Center team members each month with a BEE (Being Excellent Everyday) Award.

Associate Chief Nursing Officer Veronica Brill surprised Lydiah Napier, Certified Nursing Assistant, 3 West, with the award. Lydiah was nominated by a patient's relative:

"Lydiah was a caregiver for our mom for five days at UVA Health University Medical Center on 3 West. Our mom has had many positive and skilled professionals care for her in several hospital stays over the years. Lydiah stands out as the best.

"Our mom's journey began in the Emergency Room and eventually ended up in a room on 3 West. Lydiah came in the following morning, recognizing our mom had not had anything to eat in 24 hours and made it her mission to find some kind of snack/food for her. That small example of care was only the beginning! In the days to come, Lydiah was extraordinarily kind, gentle, professional, and took the time to make a connection with our mother.

"Whether it was their shared sense of humor, stories of playing tennis, or just stories of life — my mother looked forward to Lydiah coming into her room for care. How many patients 'look foward' to someone coming in to poke or take vitals or assist with toileting? Our mom surely did!

"As family members, we were there to witness the many, many acts of kindness, gentle care, and extreme professionalism shown by Lydiah. She warmly came in time and time again with, "Mrs. Jan, I need to ..."  Never once did mom wince or express anything other than a delight to see Lydiah.

"As family members, we enjoyed interacting with her as well. Lydiah recognized the value in family members as part of patient care — respecting our requests, willing to do whatever she could to make my mother's stay as comfortable as possible.

"Lydiah is exceptionally talented, skilled, professional, and caring! She exemplifies everything a perfect healthcare worker should be. Many thanks for the incredible care she gave our mom and the humor and personal connections that made a difference in 'Mrs. Jan's' recovery! We wish Lydiah all the best in her professional journey, as she makes a difference for so many patients — they'll be lucky to have her as a caregiver and UVA Health is better for her employment. From the bottom of our hearts — thank you, Lydiah Napier!" 

Know a Deserving Team Member?

The BEE Award recognizes UVA Health University Medical Center team members who work alongside our nurses to impact patients' experiences — just as bees and flowers depend on one another. Submit a nomination.