Nurses honored for service at awards gala
Uniontown Hospital is proud to announce that Pattie Jo Hickle, RN, the clinical shift coordinator in the hospital’s Family Beginnings Birthing Center (FBBC), has received a Cameos of Caring Award from the University of Pittsburgh, School of Nursing for excellence in her field.
Hickle began her career at Uniontown Hospital in 1997, fulfilling what had always been her dream – to become a nurse.
“For as long as I can remember, I had always wanted to be a nurse,” Hickle said. “It has been a dream of mine since I was a little girl…I am blessed to work in the very specialized field of obstetrics and I receive great satisfaction in being able to be an active part of such an intimate time in someone’s life.”
Hickle said that those moments of close contact with her patients in the FBBC are what bring her the most joy.
“To witness the miracle of child birth on a daily basis is beyond satisfaction in itself, but to actively assist a mother – to educate her, coach her, encourage her, praise her, celebrate with her and sometimes cry with her is unexplainably satisfying.”
In addition to Hickle, Kathy Rishel, RN, who spent 44-years with Uniontown Hospital, was honored as the organization’s Case Management nominee.
“Kathy was instrumental in establishing the Case Management Department,” Executive Director Kathy Simpson said.
Simpson, who oversees Case Management, along other hospital departments, said that Rishel spent her career as an asset to all she served. Rishel retired earlier this year, shortly after receiving the commendation.
“Through her efforts and commitment, the Case Manager position has grown over the years into a well-respected and integral part of our patients’ health care experience.”
Hospital executives said that the same commitment Rishel demonstrated during her time with the hospital is what has also set Hickle apart.
“Pattie Jo is everything a nurse should be. She cares deeply about her patients and is committed to doing all she can for those she comes in contact with,” Executive Director of FBBC and Chief Nursing Officer, Betty Ann Rock, said. “She is an exceptional nurse and a wonderful person and I could not be more proud of her for earning this honor.”
Hickle said that nursing simply represents who she is.
“Nursing is rewarding. It is challenging. It is empowering. It is who I am,” Hickle said. “It is what I do. It is what I live. It is what I love. I am a nurse and proud of it.”
Hickle and Rishel were honored along with other recipients of the award from across the region at the 17th annual Cameos of Caring Awards Gala last week at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center.