SGMC Health receives Barbara and John Ware Donate Life Award

SGMC Health recently announced that it received the Barbara and John Ware Donate Life Award at the Georgia Hospital Association Patient Safety and Quality Summit. This recognition underscores the team’s remarkable achievements in organ referrals, a substantial increase in timely referrals, and unwavering commitment to Donate Life’s mission, according to a press release from SGMC Health.

The Barbara and John Ware Donate Life Award, named after two pioneers in organ donation advocacy, is presented annually to healthcare organizations that demonstrate outstanding efforts in promoting organ donation awareness, facilitating the donation process, and ultimately saving lives through transplantation.

“We are deeply honored to receive the Barbara and John Ware Donate Life Award from the Georgia Hospital Association,” said Pankaj Agrawal, MD, chief medical officer. “This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team, who are committed to upholding the highest standards of patient care and advancing the cause of organ donation. At SGMC Health, we recognize the profound impact that organ donation can have on individuals and families, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to support this life-saving mission.”

SGMC Health’s comprehensive approach to organ donation encompasses education, advocacy, and collaboration with transplant centers and organ procurement organizations, the healthcare organization said.

Through community outreach programs, donor registration drives, and staff training initiatives, SGMC Health actively promotes organ donation awareness and facilitates the donation process for patients and families in need. Additionally, the organization maintains robust partnerships with transplant centers to ensure seamless coordination of care for transplant recipients.

The GHA Patient Safety and Quality Summit is an annual event that brings together healthcare professionals from across the state to discuss best practices, innovations, and challenges in patient safety and quality improvement. The Barbara and John Ware Donate Life Award is one of several accolades presented at the summit to recognize exemplary achievements in healthcare delivery and patient care.

For more information about SGMC Health and its services, visit sgmc.org.

City of Valdosta recognizes Feb. 2024 Employees of the Month

Mayor Scott James Matheson, City Manager Richard Hardy, and Public Works Administrator Larry Ogden have recognized Albert Anderson and Dan Robinson as the Employees of the Month for February 2024 during the regular Valdosta City Council meeting on February 8, 2024.

Anderson and Robinson have been acknowledged for their exceptional dedication and quick thinking, as stated in nomination letters from Public Works Administrator Larry Ogden.

Ogden’s letter praised Anderson’s journey within the city, highlighting his transition from the Parks and Recreation Department to the Stormwater Division and, later, to the Public Works Department as a heavy equipment operator. Anderson’s promotion to supervisor over the garbage crew was attributed to his exemplary work ethic. Notably, on Dec. 5, 2023, Anderson’s quick decision-making and fearless act during a fire incident prevented potential destruction, demonstrating his commitment to the safety of the building and its occupants.

Robinson, a heavy equipment operator, was commended by Ogden for his consistent dedication and proficiency since his hiring in April. Robinson’s swift response to an unexpected fire incident on the same day showcased his quick thinking and courage. His actions were pivotal in preventing severe damage or destruction to the Public Works building, ultimately saving valuable city property and equipment.

SGMC Health names Wade director of rehabilitation services

SGMC Health is pleased to announce Jennifer Wade as its director of rehabilitation services. Wade has served as interim director for the past six months, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication to the mission of the health system, SGMC Health said in a press release.

In her role, Wade will provide strategic leadership to advance SGMC Health’s comprehensive rehabilitation program, which includes acute hospital-based therapy, a dedicated inpatient rehabilitation unit, and outpatient services across campuses in Lowndes, Berrien, and Lanier counties.

Wade has two decades of experience, beginning her career as a speech language pathologist. She joined SGMC Health in 2007 as acute care therapy team leader. She holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Communication Disorders from Valdosta State University.

“I am thrilled to accept this position to lead our Rehabilitation team at SGMC Health,” said Wade. “I am committed to fostering a culture of compassion, enthusiasm, and excellence within our team. Together, we will work tirelessly to ensure our patients receive the highest quality therapy and achieve the best possible functional outcomes.”

Wade and her husband, Vernon, have five children and one grandson.

To learn more, visit sgmc.org.