Sarah Bush Lincoln Physical Therapist Carla Thomas recently received the Bravo! President’s Award for the first quarter of Fiscal Year 25.
Thomas was nominated for going above and beyond to help a patient who needed intensive home care. Her nomination read:
“I have had the shear privilege of working with Carla for 13 years and I have always been inspired by her down-to-earth and practical perspective on treating people. She is always prompt, efficient and thorough in completing her work tasks, and communicates effectively with her teammates and patients. Not only is Carla a gifted and well-practiced physical therapist, she is also an incredibly kind human being who finds value in others.
Most recently, Carla and I shared a patient. There were obvious equipment needs in the home, physical conditioning needs and a deep desire, on the patient's part, for community engagement and purpose. Carla and I collaborated on some ideas to help her take ownership of her condition and to see how she might be able to reduce her hospital readmission.
Carla took the initiative and put the idea into practice when she traveled to a local grocery store and purchased some healthy alternatives for the person. Although she had a busy work day already, Carla returned to the person’s home and gave her a cooking lesson on how to prepare a homecooked meal with lower sodium. She then helped her portion out meal containers for the next few days and explained how to make food choices that may help her reach her goal of better health. Carla also worked tirelessly with a local supplier and physician to get the person a much-needed hospital bed. This piece of equipment was not only more comfortable, but also allowed the her to elevate her legs.
Carla not only did her job, but she went above and beyond to ensure that the person had the best chance of making positive changes in her daily routine and lifestyle. I believe Carla Thomas deserves the President's Award because she consistently demonstrates and upholds the values that Sarah Bush Lincoln has set forth for all of its employees. She has been an excellent example to me, and all those she works so closely with, that persistence, kindness and going the extra mile are always worth the outcome!”
Sarah Bush Lincoln awards a quarterly Bravo! President’s Award to an employee who has gone above and beyond for patients, co-workers or the organization. One of the four quarterly award winners is chosen to receive the annual Bravo! President’s Award, the highest designation at SBL, during the annual Bravo! Dedication Banquet.
For more information, contact SBL Center for Healthy Living Director Lindsey Williamson at 217-238-4586.
