News

Leslie Weidner Memorial Award for Caregiving Excellence 2012

1/6/2012

Boulder woman honored for excellence in caregiving

BOULDER, CO –January 6, 2012  In an emotional presentation at the company’s Boulder office, the Leslie Weidner Memorial Award for Caregiving Excellence 2012 was presented by Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder County to Shari Griffin, acknowledging her compassionate and dedicated work in elder care.

                Shari Griffin, of Firestone, has worked for Homewatch CareGivers as a personal care provider since September 2007.    

                The management staff at Homewatch has often experienced Shari’s kindness and willingness to do whatever is needed.

                “When I see Shari working at a client’s house, she never stops moving.  Her approach is caring and compassionate, yet ambitious and self-motivated to get the job done,” said Andrea Bertelsen, Quality Assurance Director.

                Julie Heidemann, Homewatch CareGivers’ owner, said, “I always see a smile on Shari’s face.  She has a pleasant and professional demeanor even when the care is challenging.”

                One of Griffin’s clients, Louise Schmidt of Louisville, was present for the ceremony.  When asked about Griffin, she said, “Shari’s the best.  Both of my regular caregivers are wonderful.  I don’t know how I’d get along without them.”

                When Griffin is not busy working for Homewatch, she loves spending time with her three grandchildren.  She is expecting a fourth grandchild in January.  She has a variety of personal interests; she likes to bake, read, ice skate, and work in her garden

                “It was my lucky day when I walked into your office,” Griffin said.  “I adore the people I work with.  It is such an honor to receive this award—there are so many caregivers who really deserve it.” 

                The Leslie Weidner Memorial Award for Excellence in Caregiving was established by Homewatch CareGivers of Boulder County in January of 2007 in memory of their managing nurse, Leslie Weidner.  Each January, a Homewatch caregiver is selected who embodies the compassion, dedication and kindness that Mrs. Weidner brought to Boulder seniors for over twenty years.  Mrs. Weidner lost her battle with breast cancer in December of 2006.