HUNTINGDON, Tenn. — Staff members at Huntingdon Health and Rehab were recognized Tuesday, May 12, for saving the life of a fellow employee who went into cardiac arrest earlier this year.
Jason Caldwell, administrator at the facility, opened the ceremony by describing what prompted it.
“We had an employee that went into respiratory distress, and they brought her back to life,” he said. “This is one special group that I am just so proud of and proud to be a part of.”
Vince Hambright, vice president of operations, traveled from out of the region to present a rare company honor. He held up a coin called the “prestige coin,” which he said fewer than one percent of employees in the company ever receive.
“This is the first time I’ve ever held one,” Hambright told those gathered. “It’s bestowed upon you to be a true symbol of your excellence, of your commitment.”
Hambright said the ceremony carried extra weight for him personally.
“It’s one thing for us to provide care to our residents. That’s what we do,” he said. “But it’s abnormal for us to be in a position where we have to render care to one of our own.”
Jonathan Kemble, one of nine staff members honored, described what happened when he first found his colleague.
“She was without color, no life signs,” he said. “I started CPR, and Amy [Moody] went and got the rest of the crew. I was only there for maybe 12 to 15 seconds by myself, and everybody circled around and filled the role perfectly. That’s why she’s alive today.”
Kemble reflected on receiving the recognition.
“You’re only as good as the team around you,” he said. “My team is exceptional, and that’s why I’m able to succeed the way that I have.”
Michael Hatmaker, regional director of operations, told the staff their response was a reflection of the culture they had built at the facility.
“If anybody ever questions when they bring a loved one here if someone’s going to be taken care of, you are living proof and example that that happens every single day,” he said.
The honorees were: Hollie Avalon, Catrina Beasley, Amy Moody, Mary Reynolds, Michelle Goodman, Ashlee Weathers, Rhonda Crossett, Jonathan Kemble, and Bianca Reynolds.