VNA & Blue Water Hospice leadership honors staff quarterly through the ‘Shining Star’ program, recognizing the extras they do for each other, their patients, and the community.

Let’s get to know Mike!

What do you do at VNA & BWH?
I cook, clean, do minor maintenance, run errands – whatever is needed at the Blue Water Hospice Home.

Why did you choose this type of work?
In 2006 my wife was under hospice care. A couple years later when telling a friend, I was going to start giving back by volunteering, he asked “at the hospital” – nope, I had decided on hospice.

Why do you choose to work at VNA & BWH?
I worked for the railroad for over 30 years before retiring. I started volunteering in 2008. When I first started volunteering, I was visiting patients before transitioning to another program, and finally ended up at the Hospice Home. The cook at the time kept asking me to work for the agency, I finally gave in. Initially, it was just contingent — as needed, before I knew it, I had a regular schedule! I just love the staff and the teamwork, being part of a great team.

What is a favorite memory you have of work?
I don’t have a favorite; they are all pretty good. I enjoy all the fun times we have as a staff – the group of us, together.

Jennifer recognized Mike as a Shining Star!
Mike always has a smile on his face as he walks around the Hospice Home. He is quick to offer help or support to other staff members. Lately he has really stepped up in the kitchen to help and never hesitates to do what is asked of him. Mike is greatly appreciated by his peers for making the working conditions even better than usual. Thank you, Mike for being our Shining Star.

If you would like to thank a staff member, volunteer, or physician at VNA & Blue Water Hospice, go to https://bwhch.org/thankyou/.