Excellence in Skilled Nursing – Whatever It Takes Winners for January 2026

Our Whatever It Takes Champions program honors associates who go beyond their job descriptions in caring for our patients, residents, and families. Here are four recent winners and their inspiring stories. We are proud to have associates like these who define what it means to be Champions of Care!

George Ricchard, Director of Maintenance at Parkview Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

A discharging patient found themselves unable to enter their house because a heavy snowstorm had piled layers of snow on their entrance ramp! But George jumped into action. He traveled to the patient's house and cleared the snow himself so that the patient could enter their home safely. Afterward, members of the patient’s family called the facility discharge planner in tears to express how much George’s gesture meant to them.

Sue Traywick, Receptionist at Life Care Center of Hixson

To help a shy therapy patient feel more comfortable and confident during their rehab stay, Sue came in on her off days to spend time with them. She talked with them, encouraged them, and acted as their mentor throughout their stay. The patient deeply appreciated Sue’s special attention to their needs.

Andrea Zuniga, CNA at Life Care Center of Longmont

Andrea’s Whatever It Takes win comes from not just one resident nomination but three! Here is what each resident had to say about her care:

1. “She know her job. She will help with anything necessary. She works well with everyone and is always happy!”
2. “She is very efficient in taking care of us residents. When we have a need, she is right there.”
3. “At night, she stays in the hallway making sure we are all good and our needs are met. We don’t have to wait. Thanks for your dedication and hard work!”

Kristina Leslie, CNA at Life Care Center of Greeneville

Kristina has not been at Life Care Center of Greeneville long but has already made an astounding impression on her colleagues, residents, and families. How do we know this? Well, she received nine Whatever It Takes nominations for January 2026!

The nominations emphasized that she is “bright and cheerful,” “modest and humble,” and will do “whatever is needed to get the job done.”