Lori DeBoer received the Sanford Health Network Support Services Employee of the Year Award. Lori has been with Sanford Luverne for 25 years.
“In our network, there are over 5,000 employees, with 3,000 just in the Sioux Falls region, so when we have an employee of the year it’s a special thing,” said Terry Mahar, director of the Sioux Falls health network.
He was in Luverne to present the award and referred to nominations from her peers.
“Her calling puts the heart in health care. She has worked as a patient care tech previously and is currently in environmental services,” read one of the nominations.
“Lori demonstrates service has a value above all as she cleans in patient rooms.”
Sanford Luverne recently received a letter from a patient’s daughter who shared how much Lori meant to her family during the time that her mother was passing.
“Lori was humming a hymn that was a favorite of the family and they found significant comfort at the time of their mother’s death,” the nomination form read.
Her peers also state that DeBoer puts her work family first, willingly helping clean additional areas or staying late when the department is running short.
“Lori ensures that Sanford Luverne has an excellent first impression to both patients and visitors,” nominations said.
“She takes ownership and pride in her work and … has a can-do attitude and a willingness to help coworkers. In addition, she goes the extra mile for patients and their families, grabbing a blanket if they are cold or putting their feet up.”
DeBoer’s peers said she’s comfort for patients.
“Lori carries on a conversation as she cleans, and many patients comment on how much they appreciate her conversation when she is in their room,” they said.
“Lori has a tender, caring personality that patients gravitate toward. She leads others through her example.”