Denise Clay, a surgical nurse at Eaton Rapids Medical Center (ERMC), was named the 2024 recipient of the hospital’s clinical Meinke Sherman Care, Serve, Inspire Award.
Denise was nominated for the 2024 ERMC Clinical Employee of the Year award by a co-worker who highlighted her welcoming, comforting, and knowledgeable caregiving skills. The nomination read, in part, “Patients always feel relaxed in her presence, which is crucial in a stressful environment. She’s willing to hold your hand and be a shoulder to cry on, offering support to both patients and co-workers.”
Denise has been part of the ERMC team for the past 13 years. She shared that her favorite part of her job is working with both the patients and her co-workers. “It is an honor to help my patients through their surgical procedures,” Denise said. “I love the ability to teach and encourage them on how to navigate surgery and recovery at home. It’s a very important part of the process.”
Her nomination also noted that Denise’s name is consistently mentioned in a positive light during the hospital’s patient follow-ups, thanks to her excellent bedside manner, patience, and caring demeanor. “Denise is always willing to jump in and help her co-workers in any capacity,” the nomination stated. “She is proactive, always looking ahead and ready to face any challenges to ensure a safe and smooth experience for our patients.”
Denise was in total shock when presented with the award. “It brought tears to my eyes,” she said. “Thank you to the person who nominated me. It is such an honor to be chosen from so many other qualified individuals at ERMC.”
The Meinke Sherman Care, Serve, Inspire Award was established to honor ERMC’s founding physicians, Dr. Albert Meinke and Dr. Eber Sherman. This award recognizes three employees each year for their outstanding service: a leader, a clinical staff member, and a non-clinical staff member.