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Working as a personal caregiver can be one of the more demanding jobs you'll find out there--it takes a caring, patient, and compassionate soul. But the right person with the right attitude and big enough heart can make that vocation not seem like work at all.
One such person is Orchard Heights Retirement Community personal care aide Donna McCoy. She has provided outstanding care for the facility since 1991. For the pas 15 years, McCoy has assisted elders with daily living and activities. That work has captured the respect and admiration of her co-workers and colleagues.
"Donna is a wonderful, compassionate, and caring person," said Orchard Heights Clinical Director Debbie Petroski. "I've never known a more dedicated person."
While she is of course compensated for her work at the Heights, it is well known that Donna goes above and beyond the usual call of duty and job description. McCoy was voted Peak Performer of the Year unanimously by the department heads in her building. She was given the award at Orchard Heights' annual holiday party, which was held at Salvatore's Italian Gardens in Depew. McCoy then received a one-weed paid vacation, as well as a bonus check to use while on vacation.
Whether she hangs on to that bonus is unknown. She always seems to feel that someone else could use the money more than she can. In past years, McCoy has donated all of her bonus checks to the retirement community, to further improve the lives of the people for whom she cares. She has also in the past spent her own money on patients who have limited supplies.
McCoy is known around Orchard Heights as the person who is always smiling. She goes out of her way to help anyone and everyone she comes in contact with, and her smile is contagious, often lighting up the lives of others. "Donna is respectful, responsible, and modest," said Lee Watson, Recreation Director at Orchard Heights. "She's a caring and conscientious woman. Donna puts everyone around her in a good mood with her cheery personality."
Two different residents who currently receive care from McCoy have spoken of her in glowing terms. "She's wonderful--155 percent perfect," one said. Said another resident, "She's wonderful. If you need something, she is there for you. She is there for everybody. She is helpful and considerate with my special needs. She tries to do everything for everybody."
That's McCoy for you:leaving great impressions on all and touching their lives with each passing day. |
