Nine competing for JWCC CNA honor

[cougarnurse]

Congratulations to all of them: Quincy Herald Whig

Nine area residents have been nominated for JWCC/Community Certified Nursing Assistant of the Year for 2009.

The nominees will be honored and the winner named on April 24 at a luncheon at the Senior and Family Resource Center in Quincy.

This year marks the 14th anniversary of the CNA of the Year celebration, which is sponsored by John Wood Community College and area health-care agencies.

CNAs provide personal assistance with a wide array of daily activities and also strive to meet the physical, emotional and social needs of those for whom they care every day.

"CNA of the Year recognition was established locally as a way to honor the dedication of CNAs, our 'Angels of Health Care,' who provide direct care to us and our loved ones throughout the area," said Moia Uzelac, CNA coordinator and co-chairman of the committee organizing the event.

"Being a CNA requires that individuals show compassion, flexibility, patience and creativity," Uzelac said. "The rewards for those who choose CNA as a career are abundant. As frontline caregivers, CNAs develop wonderful relationships with those in their care and deep satisfaction in knowing they make a difference in someone's life."

Employment opportunities for CNAs are excellent throughout the region.

Earning a CNA certificate and becoming a part of the growing health-care industry can take between eight and 10 weeks. JWCC has day and evening classes available.

The college also offers the Geriatric Care Specialist Program, which builds on the CNA's basic training and allows them to gain additional knowledge in geriatric care.