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News From NeuroRestorative

Announcing the FY19 Q2 NeuroRestorative Heroes

NeuroRestorative Heroes is an employee recognition program that celebrates team members whose actions make them a hero to those we serve or their colleagues. Each quarter, the program recognizes six outstanding employees for their dedication to the individuals we serve.

At NeuroRestorative, we are proud to have an amazing team of employees working tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of people with brain, spinal cord or medically complex injury, illnesses and other challenges. From clinicians to direct care workers to administrative support staff, everyone in the NeuroRestorative family plays an important part in ensuring the delivery of services that enhance quality of life. We strive to ensure all our employees feel valued, supported and recognized for the important work that they do.

“The NeuroRestorative Heroes program is a great way to recognize and thank our valued employees,” said Bill Duffy, President of NeuroRestorative. “On behalf of everyone at NeuroRestorative, I want to thank all of our passionate and dedicated employees and congratulate this quarter’s Heroes.”

Joel Hopper, Speech Language Pathologist

NeuroRestorative Utah 

As a Speech Language Pathologist with expertise in swallow function, communication and managing artificial airways, Joel excels at collaborating with various disciplines to develop the best recovery plan for the individuals we serve. At the same time, he reassures people that he is there to support them each step of the way. He is able to help individuals set attainable goals for their rehabilitation and has helped many advance their diets and improve safety when eating. Joel takes the initiative to provide training and follow-up to ensure that safe swallow strategies are understood and implemented across disciplines. He has also been a driving force in improving cognition, communication and personal interactions between individuals within the program. Each day, Joel demonstrates patience, compassion and persistence, qualities that benefit the individuals we serve while providing a positive example for the rest of his team to follow.

“Joel’s leadership helps keep our team focusing on recovery for the individuals and improving quality. His intelligence and demeanor reassure individuals that they can recover,” said Brent Waldrop, Case Manager, NeuroRestorative Utah.

Kaylee Simpson, Life Skills Trainer

NeuroRestorative Arizona

Kaylee is an exceptional employee who is committed to achieving positive outcomes for the individuals we serve. She is always willing to be a team player, going above and beyond to help people regain the skills they need to return to life at home and in the community. She is also known for her willingness to support and assist her colleagues in order to ensure that the entire program provides the highest level of service possible. Kaylee is always willing to go the extra mile for anyone who needs it, whether that means an individual who needs extra support or encouragement or a team member in need of a helping hand. Her giving and compassionate nature means that she expects nothing in return for helping others and is willing to give unconditionally.

“Kaylee is a loving, caring and empathetic employee. She is a joy to be around and a joy to work with,” said Kary Zurn, Program Director, NeuroRestorative Arizona. 

Christy Morris, Supervisor, Day Program

NeuroRestorative Kentucky

Christy is an exemplary employee who not only excels in her role as supervisor but also provides support on many projects that go above and beyond her job description. Christy has assisted all areas of the program by helping manage schedules, organizing events and working in the residential programs when needed. Christy also helps plan and assist with afternoon and evening activities for individuals so they can enjoy socializing after day treatment and therapy. Due in part to her support and leadership, the Paducah program has been able to provide high-quality supports to all individuals served and give families peace of mind while their loved ones are with us.

“Christy carries a positive attitude and demeanor and is a constant support to all team members. She is a problem solver and always brings solutions to the table,” said Meleah Perdue, Program Director, NeuroRestorative Kentucky. 

John Lafreniere, Life Skills Trainer

NeuroRestorative Michigan

John has the heart of a servant. At NeuroRestorative Michigan’s program in East Bay, he is known for treating the individuals we serve with kindness and compassion. He will always go the extra mile for someone, no matter the effort or time required. He will stop what he is doing to help any staff member. His caring heart and compassionate demeanor enable him to motivate individuals when they are having difficulty because it is evident that he genuinely cares for each of them and shows it in everything he does. He is an advocate for their needs and desires to help achieve the best possible outcome for them.

“John is devoted to the people he supports. He treats them as if they were family,” said Matthew McRoberts, Residential Supervisor, Rachelle Haysmer, Rehab Specialist, and Jessica Loose, Program Manager, NeuroRestorative Michigan.

Hayley Horvath, Life Skill Trainer

NeuroRestorative Ohio

Hayley has a positive influence on everyone she encounters. She gives comfort to those she serves and inspires confidence in her interactions with everyone in the program. All of the staff of the program agree that she brings a sense of fun and a collaborative spirit to the workplace. In times where it is necessary to pull together as a team to complete a project or work through a challenge, Hayley is the first to volunteer to help. She accomplishes all of this while pursuing her degree to become a Licensed Nursing Home Administrator (LNHA). Hayley truly embodies the values of hard work, collaboration and selflessness.

“She adds so much strength, guidance, uplifting energy and resourcefulness to any given day,” said Katy Fleck, Director of Nursing, NeuroRestorative Ohio. 

Thomas Urich, Life Skills Trainer

NeuroRestorative Tennessee

Tom is a hero to the individuals and staff at NeuroRestorative Tennessee. He is often described as passionate about the work of helping individuals with brain and spinal cord injury and other neurological challenges recover. He puts the needs of the individuals in our residential program as the highest priority. He takes them on outings, plans their meals and makes every effort to ensure that each person has their food prepared the way that they like it. He works with individuals to help them have a good day, whatever that means for them–playing cards with them, shooting pool, assisting with puzzles or taking them outside for activities. Tom takes the time to listen and treats all individuals and staff with the highest respect. With his commitment to helping individuals succeed and the compassionate, personalized support he provides, he is truly a hero to everyone around him.

“Thomas is one of the most professional, calm and passionate staff members I have worked with,” said Virginia Collins, Director of Nursing, NeuroRestorative Tennessee.