Each year, the Ohio Council for Home Care & Hospice (OCHCH) recognizes outstanding individuals for the service and care they provide. The 2018 awards were presented on September 12, 2018 at the OCHCH Annual Conference & Tradeshow.
Michael Vallee, JD, received the Dorothy Royce Award. Named in honor of the association’s founding president, this award recognizes individuals who have worked hard to promote home care and hospice in Ohio. Mike has been actively involved with OCHCH for many years and currently serves as Chairman of the Board of Directors. Mike is president of Ohio Valley Home Health, Inc. and part owner of Advantage Skilled Care, LLC and Ross County Home Health.
The 2018 Homemaker/Aide of the Year awards recognizes special individuals in home care and hospice who are outstanding, personable, caring and dedicated caregivers. Peggy Butler an STNA at Henry County Home Health & Hospice received the award for hospice. Robin Robinson of Ross County Home Health, LLC received the award for home care.
Linda Eckfield was honored with the Caring Award, which is presented to a caregiver who has exhibited outstanding courage and love to individuals in their care. Linda and her husband founded the Progeny Family Training Center which offers training for families and round the clock nursing care for medically fragile children.
The Award of Excellence in Hospice was presented to Joseph McDermott, an LPN at Hospice of Southwest Ohio for the compassionate care he provides to those in his care.
Kristopher Parrish, an occupational therapist at OhioHealth Home Care, received the Award of Excellence in Home Care. Kris was recognized for developing a home modifications program to improve safety and help clients age in place.
The 2018 Hospice Volunteer of the Year is Mary Ann Moos of Visiting Nurse Association of Ohio Hospice. For nearly 20 years, Mary Ann has volunteered to help ensure the delivery of excellent care and service.
The Advocacy Champion Award was presented to Debra Studer, Regional Director of Eastern Ohio at Interim HealthCare, Inc. This special award recognizes an individual who is an advocate for the industry and has made significant contributions to the improvement and advancement of home care and/or hospice through governmental and political involvement, leadership, and activism.
Senator Dave Burke (Ohio’s 26th Senate District) and Representative Sarah LaTourette (76th Ohio House District) received the Home Care and Hospice Hero Awards. These awards recognize public officials who have made a significant contribution to the improvement and advancement of home care and hospice, and their accessibility to the public.
