2011 award winners


CNA of the Year – Sharon Falconer


“The greatest gift to Sharon was finding out how much everyone cared about her.”


Sharon Falconer’s great love for the residents at Good Samaritan Society – De Smet in De Smet, S.D. For her compassion, the Good Samaritan Society is recognizing Falconer as its 2011 Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year.


T


In February 2010, Falconer was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, but was told it was slow growing. Then, more than a year later, in March 2011, she found out she had throat cancer. The treatments were hard on her, but she is healing.


“A few of the residents know what I’ve been going through with my cancer and have been really concerned for my welfare and how I am doing,” says Falconer. “When I would come back on the weekends to help the residents with their meals, a big grin would show up on their faces. They were as glad to see me as I was to see them.”


Because of her throat cancer, Falconer has trouble speaking. In receiving


he strength to do her job in the midst of cancer comes from


the CNA award during the Good Samaritan Society’s Annual Meeting, her best friend and co-worker, Janelle Martens spoke on her behalf and read her acceptance speech.


Martens said life became a whirlwind for Falconer after her second cancer diagnosis. She immediately scheduled radiation and chemotherapy treatments. Co-workers put together a benefit and raised $10,000 to help with expenses. It was evident she was in financial need, said Martens. “But I think the greatest gift to Sharon was finding out how much everyone cared about her.”


Falconer says she’s fortunate to have a job she loves even though it might be stressful and challenging at times. “I wouldn’t want to work any other place,” she says. “Taking care of the residents and making life the best it can be for them is all I can ask for.”


As a certified nursing assistant, Falconer is committed to making life easier for residents. She takes time to listen to and remember their stories,


and residents know they are important to her. Falconer makes an effort to know which resident, for example, likes soap operas, football, racing, reality shows or Lawrence Welk. She makes sure they are able to continue doing the things they enjoy by visiting with them about their interests.


Falconer is integral to the strong camaraderie between staff and residents, says Melissa Tordoff, administrator at the center. As a certified nursing assistant, she not only helps residents meet their daily needs, but she is there to help them meet their spiritual needs.


“Helping the residents with their activities and meeting their daily needs is my number one priority,” Falconer says. “Just to see the residents’ smiling faces and give them a big hug makes my day. We are a close and big family.”


Sharon has three children and four grandchildren.


14 The Good Samaritan • 2011 • Vol. 45 • No. 2


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