Adelaida (Ida) Gonzales, long-time physical therapist at Eaton Rapids Medical Center (ERMC), was named the 2022 recipient of the hospital’s clinical Meinke Sherman Care, Serve, Inspire Award.
Gonzales’ nomination for the 2022 ERMC Clinical Employee of the Year award, submitted by her co-workers, detailed the skill, kindness, and passion she exemplifies each day with her patients and colleagues in the hospital’s rehabilitation department.
The nomination read, in part, “Ida is always willing to see patients, she never reacts negatively if someone is added to her schedule at the last minute. In fact, she consistently stays late to get paperwork done because she gives up her note time to see patients; they are truly her top priority! Ida deserves this award as she is the perfect example of someone who genuinely cares about people and goes above and beyond for others. Anyone who meets her knows that she stands out!”
Gonzales says she loves the work she does, especially the moments when she can help those around her navigate and overcome the challenges in their daily lives.
“I see patients as people with problems to be solved or managed, and I enjoy the challenge of figuring that out with them. Plus, I have a lot of laughs with my coworkers and we have a real comradery in our department.”
When asked if she was surprised to win this year’s award Gonzales was resolute – “Absolutely – I was surprised to be nominated, let alone win!”
She added that “It’s really nice to be recognized, even though I just think I’m doing my job. I think the culture of our department—and of the entire hospital, really—fosters us wanting to do well for our patients, for each other, and for our community.”
As part of the award, and in addition to many congratulations from her coworkers, Gonzales received a bouquet of flowers and a gift from the hospital’s administrative team to thank her for all she has done for ERMC.
