Congratulations Sonya Ward, Paramedic, for being recognized as a Service Hero! Sonya was nominated by a coworker for the award.

The coworker said on the overnight shift of March 3rd/4th, the Emergency Department experienced challenges that were making it very difficult to deliver excellent care.

The fast track area was closed due to staffing issues, the waiting room wait times were climbing, they had numerous ambulances waiting in the sub-waiting area, inpatient holds prevented them from having effective space to see patients, and the acuity of the patients they did have was quite high.

Sonya was working as the triage/phlebotomy tech on this evening.

The coworker said he asked Sonya if she would be willing, in addition to her regular duties, to start moving patients into the fast track area that was closed. Without hesitation, she obliged and they began to see 3 to 4 patients at a time.

“Within about two hours, we were able to see all the patients and deliver the care we are used to providing. This was only possible because Sonya Ward went above and beyond, with grace, humility, and an uncompromising work ethic…to be a true service hero. And while I’m recognizing Sonya for this by this nomination, to be honest, Sonya does this EVERY night.”