A cancer nurse at the St. Joseph’s/Candler Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion Thursday afternoon was named the 21st recipient of the system’s Catherine McAuley Award.
Beverly Youmans, manager of the Infusion Center, is a constant force for hope and joy for patients facing pain, uncertainty and fear — until the elation when chemotherapy is complete, said Paul P. Hinchey, president and CEO for the system.
The “surprise” announcement was made at St. Joseph’s Hospital in recognition of Youmans’ work and what she represents.
“I really can’t believe it,” said Youmans, wiping her eyes as she received the recognition from among 39 people nominated by fellow employees for the award.
“I feel I have so many human faults,” she said, adding, “I’ve always believed in this hospital and what we do and why we do it.”
Youmans, a system employee since 1988, is a registered nurse who lives in Brooklet in Bulloch County.
“Not only are the patients infused with medicine, they also appear to be infused with the love, goodness and great compassion that comes from Beverly, her staff and all services,” wrote one of the people who nominated her.
The award is named in honor of Catherine McAuley, who founded The Sisters of Mercy in the hopes of bringing education, health care, social justice, and spiritual guidance to those in need. It’s presented annually to a St. Joseph’s/Candler co-worker who best exemplifies the mission and values of the health system.
Co-workers who nominated Youmans noted her dedicated attention to making the patients comfortable and her compassionate care and attention to the highest standards of nursing and health care.
As the 2014 Catherine McAuley Award winner, Youman’s name will appear on the bronze McAuley plaque displayed in the lobbies of St. Joseph’s Hospital and Candler Hospital. She will receive a $3,000 honorarium, a one-year free parking pass in the location of her choice, a one-month cafeteria meal pass, a gift certificate for massages at the Center for WellBeing, a St. Joseph’s/Candler watch and the McAuley pin.