Laura Launstein, Rehabilitation Manager for Eaton Rapids Medical Center (ERMC), has been described by her coworkers and patients as a kind, compassionate, and effortlessly funny person. This wonderful nature, along with a laser-focus on patient safety and an impressive track record of excellent patient care, led to Launstein being named as one of the 2022 Dr. Meinke & Dr. Sherman Distinguished Service Award recipients.
Established to honor ERMC’s founding physicians, Dr. Albert Meinke and Dr. Eber Sherman, this award recognizes three hospital employees each year for their outstanding service: a leader, a clinical staff member, and a non-clinical staff member. Launstein’s selection as the 2022 ERMC Leader of the Year is thanks in part to the exceptional treatment she delivers to staff, patients, and the community through her work in rehab services.
Launstein, who has worked at Eaton Rapids Medical Center for more than 25 years, highlights her coworkers and patients as the true bright spots in her career.
“I deeply enjoy working as part of this amazing team, both within my department and within the hospital as a whole, to care for this wonderful community,” she said. “Taking care of patients to help them get back to living their best lives is my favorite part of each day.”
Launstein’s nomination, submitted by her colleagues, shares that “Laura relentlessly looks out for not only her own staff, but employees in all areas of the hospital.” The nomination goes on to read, “She cares so genuinely for patients in the medical surgical unit, everyone can see just how much they love her. Laura is gifted at making people feel special; and she has the ability to lighten any situation with the right word or a bit of laughter at the right moment. We all love to hear that laugh!”
Launstein was visibly surprised when her name was announced to a hearty round of applause during the award ceremony this January.
“I was very surprised to win this award!” she laughs, recalling the moment. “We have such an outstanding leadership team, and so many of them do such great things every day, I feel that all of them are deserving of recognition!”
As part of the award, and in addition to many warm-hearted congratulations from coworkers and patients, Launstein received a bouquet of flowers and a gift from the hospital’s administrative team to thank her for all she has done for ERMC.
