The Great 100 Nurses in North Carolina is an esteemed recognition celebrating the remarkable dedication and contributions of nurses across the state. This honor highlights the invaluable role nurses play in enhancing healthcare services within their communities. This year, ECU Health proudly boasts 25 of its nurses among the Great 100, including Britney Beeker, Rebecca Simmons, Sheena Bunch, Katherine Low, Connie Midgette, and Stephanie Smith. Each of these individuals exemplifies commitment, compassion, and excellence in nursing.
Britney Beeker is a shining example of professional resilience and dedication. With a career spanning 16 years at ECU Health, she has found her niche in the surgical oncology unit. Interestingly, Britney’s journey began with doubts about working in oncology. However, as she engaged in post-operative care, she fell in love with the field. Her involvement extends beyond her clinical responsibilities, as she manages community fundraising activities and drives initiatives that support cancer awareness. Urban legends within her nursing school about her sticking around for her entire career in Greenville have turned into reality, as she expresses her unwavering commitment to the local community.
Rebecca Simmons, another inspiring nurse, serves as a manager of patient care services at ECU Health Beaufort Hospital. Starting her journey in 2011, Rebecca transitioned to the Marion L. Shepard Cancer Center after her initial exposure to oncology in nursing school. Her love for her profession stems not only from her caring nature but also from a desire to make lasting impacts in her community. One notable project she spearheaded involves a smoking cessation program aimed at helping cancer patients quit smoking, showing her proactive approach to improving health outcomes.
Sheena Bunch brings a unique set of skills to her role as a procedure nurse. With nine years of experience, she performs various specialized tasks and regards nursing as a calling rather than a mere profession. Her personal experience with loss has profoundly shaped her approach to patient care, motivating her to provide compassionate care as if each patient is someone’s entire world. Sheena appreciates the strong community within ECU Health, emphasizing that her recognition as a Great 100 Nurse reflects the collective efforts of her entire team.
Katherine Low, a staff nurse III at ECU Health Medical Center, expresses surprise and honor at being chosen as a Great 100 Nurse. Beginning her career in nursing through personal experiences caring for her grandfather, Katherine retains a strong connection to her patients, fostering their progress towards recovery. Her commitment, along with a strong connection to her colleagues, has solidified her passion for nursing and indeed, she is proud of the community atmosphere within her workplace.
Connie Midgette, who has dedicated two decades to ECU Health, articulates her sense of purpose in nursing, particularly in oncology. She emphasizes team support and dedication to patient care, which effectively retain the focus on safe, high-quality treatment. Connie’s recognition under the Great 100 Nurses reflects her commitment to continuous improvement, both professionally and personally, showcasing how nurses play a significant role in the lives of their patients and families.
Lastly, Stephanie Smith exemplifies the emotional investment that nurses make in their careers. With six years at ECU Health, she has flourished in various roles, nurturing relationships with patients and their families. For Stephanie, her recognition as a Great 100 Nurse serves as a testament to the culture of support and excellence fostered at ECU Health, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that defines nursing.
These six nurses are not just stellar professionals; they are symbols of resilience, compassion, and community dedication. Their personal stories exemplify the values that drive the nursing profession forward, showcasing the profound impact that nurses can make in their roles.
The recognition at the statewide gala in October will bring together advocates, colleagues, family, and friends to celebrate these exceptional nurses and their contributions to healthcare in North Carolina. Their achievements resonate beyond the individual, instilling pride within ECU Health and reaffirming that the collective effort of nursing professionals can lead to significant improvements in community health and patient care.
In conclusion, the Great 100 Nurses program not only honors these outstanding individuals but also emphasizes the importance of the nursing profession in advancing health care standards. Britney Beeker, Rebecca Simmons, Sheena Bunch, Katherine Low, Connie Midgette, and Stephanie Smith are remarkable embodiments of the values and commitment required in nursing today. Their stories inspire future generations of nurses and showcase the bright future of healthcare.
